Table of Contents

 UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

 

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

 

For the quarterly period ended August 31, 20192020

 

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

 

For the transition period from ________to________

 

Commission file number: 001-36865

logo01.jpg

 

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware

47-1535633

(State or other jurisdiction of

Incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 

265 Turner Drive, Durango, CO 81303

(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

 

(970) 259-0554

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

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

 

Title of each class

Trading symbol

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share

RMCF

Nasdaq Global Market

Preferred Stock Purchase Rights

RMCF

Nasdaq Global Market

 

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

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐

 

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

 

Large accelerated filerAccelerated filer
    
Non-accelerated filerSmaller reporting company
    
  Emerging growth company

 

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

 

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

 

On October 1, 2019,10, 2020, the registrant had outstanding 5,994,9976,070,925 shares of its common stock, $0.001 par value.

 

1

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

FORM 10-Q

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I.FINANCIAL INFORMATION3

Item 1.Financial Statements3

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOMEOPERATIONS 3
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 4
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 5
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY 6
NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS7

Item 2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations20
 18
Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk26
Item 4.Controls and Procedures2630
   
Item 4.Controls and Procedures30

PART II.OTHER INFORMATION30

Item 1.27Legal Proceedings30
   
Item 1.1A.Legal ProceedingsRisk Factors30
 27
Item 1A.2.Risk Factors27
Item 2.Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds27
Item 3.Defaults Upon Senior Securities27
Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures27
Item 5. Other Information27
Item 6.Exhibits2830
   
Item 3.Defaults Upon Senior Securities30
 
Item 4.SignaturesMine Safety Disclosures30
 29
Item 5.Other Information30
Item 6.Exhibits31

 

SIGNATURES

32

2

 

 

PART I.     FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.     Financial Statements

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOMEOPERATIONS

(unaudited)

 

 

Three Months Ended August 31,

  

Six Months Ended August 31,

  

Three Months Ended August 31,

  

Six Months Ended August 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2019

  

2018

  

2020

  

2019

  

2020

  

2019

 

Revenues

                                

Sales

 $5,384,040  $5,736,319  $11,844,651  $12,318,368  $3,994,152  $5,384,040  $6,316,363  $11,844,651 

Franchise and royalty fees

  2,001,230   2,063,769   3,966,618   3,847,805   1,333,250   2,001,230   1,713,476   3,966,618 

Total Revenue

  7,385,270   7,800,088   15,811,269   16,166,173   5,327,402   7,385,270   8,029,839   15,811,269 
                                

Costs and Expenses

                                

Cost of sales

  3,738,435   3,883,884   8,353,179   8,549,126   3,053,563   3,738,435   5,936,779   8,353,179 

Franchise costs

  441,638   582,798   924,651   1,076,048   451,003   441,638   872,248   924,651 

Sales and marketing

  434,782   565,212   991,433   1,153,462   408,919   434,782   883,009   991,433 

General and administrative

  830,451   813,388   1,975,182   1,727,835   788,543   830,451   3,968,018   1,975,182 

Retail operating

  469,304   498,856   918,206   1,061,328   329,367   469,304   648,578   918,206 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense of $147,415, $138,212, $293,114 and $274,717, respectively, included in cost of sales

  225,417   296,737   457,372   597,737 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense of $158,203, $147,415, $315,712 and $293,114, respectively, included in cost of sales

  176,650   225,417   362,255 �� 457,372 

Costs associated with Company-owned store closures

  -   118,793   -   176,981   -   -   68,558   - 

Total costs and expenses

  6,140,027   6,759,668   13,620,023   14,342,517   5,208,045   6,140,027   12,739,445   13,620,023 
                                

Income from Operations

  1,245,243   1,040,420   2,191,246   1,823,656 

Income (Loss) from Operations

  119,357   1,245,243   (4,709,606)  2,191,246 
                                

Other Income (Expense)

                                

Interest Expense

  (3,487)  (19,418)  (15,885)  (42,057)  (23,989)  (3,487)  (47,551)  (15,885)

Interest Income

  6,007   4,627   16,186   9,204   5,365   6,007   11,165   16,186 

Other income (expense), net

  2,520   (14,791)  301   (32,853)  (18,624)  2,520   (36,386)  301 
                                

Income Before Income Taxes

  1,247,763   1,025,629   2,191,547   1,790,803 

Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes

  100,733   1,247,763   (4,745,992)  2,191,547 
                                

Income Tax Provision

  329,675   274,814   561,850   463,044 

Income Tax Provision (Benefit)

  24,601   329,675   (1,154,727)  561,850 
                                

Consolidated Net Income

 $918,088  $750,815  $1,629,697  $1,327,759 

Consolidated Net Income (Loss)

 $76,132  $918,088  $(3,591,265) $1,629,697 
                                

Basic Earnings per Common Share

 $0.15  $0.13  $0.27  $0.22 

Diluted Earnings per Common Share

 $0.15  $0.13  $0.26  $0.22 

Basic Earnings (Loss) per Common Share

 $0.01  $0.15  $(0.59) $0.27 

Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Common Share

 $0.01  $0.15  $(0.59) $0.26 
                                

Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding - Basic

  5,977,746   5,923,351   5,970,012   5,914,383 

Dilutive Effect of Employee Stock Awards

  279,584   59,479   275,935   68,536 

Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding - Diluted

  6,257,330   5,982,830   6,245,947   5,982,919 

Weighted Average Common Shares

                

Outstanding - Basic

  6,066,034   5,977,746   6,062,443   5,970,012 

Dilutive Effect of Employee

                

Stock Awards

  219,043   279,584   -   275,935 

Weighted Average Common Shares

                

Outstanding - Diluted

  6,285,077   6,257,330   6,062,443   6,245,947 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.statements

 

3

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

 

August 31,

  

February 28,

  

August 31,

  

February 29,

 
 

2019

  

2019

  

2020

  

2020

 

 

(unaudited)

      

(unaudited)

     
Assets          

Current Assets

                

Cash and cash equivalents

 $5,753,209  $5,384,027  $5,923,707  $4,822,071 

Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $585,306 and $489,502, respectively

  4,017,572   3,993,262 

Notes receivable, current portion

  134,926   110,162 

Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,812,680 and $638,907, respectively

  2,917,061   4,049,959 

Notes receivable, current portion, less current portion of the valuation allowance of $50,661 and $0,

  111,933   160,700 

Refundable income taxes

  44,726   190,201   418,390   418,319 

Inventories, less reserve for slow moving inventory of $178,658 and $371,147, respectively

  4,195,198   4,270,357 

Inventories, net

  5,726,426   3,750,978 

Other

  465,876   318,126   390,259   409,703 

Total current assets

  14,611,507   14,266,135   15,487,776   13,611,730 
        

Property and Equipment, Net

  5,857,664   5,786,139   5,533,901   5,938,013 
        

Other Assets

                

Notes receivable, less current portion

  317,507   281,669 

Notes receivable, less current portion and valuation allowance of $149,339 and $0, respectively

  99,059    289,515 

Goodwill, net

  1,046,944   1,046,944   729,701   1,046,944 

Franchise rights, net

  3,363,304   3,678,920   2,783,727   3,047,688 

Intangible assets, net

  460,865   498,337   411,040   498,393 

Deferred income taxes

  505,462   607,421   1,784,806   630,078 

Lease right of use asset

  3,066,826   -   2,301,165   2,698,765 

Other

  56,264   56,576   56,264   56,262 

Total other assets

  8,817,172   6,169,867   8,165,762   8,267,645 
        

Total Assets

 $29,286,343  $26,222,141  $29,187,439  $27,817,388 
        

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

                

Current Liabilities

                

Current maturities of long term debt

 $480,445  $1,176,488  $847,731  $- 

Line of credit

  3,448,165   - 

Accounts payable

  1,295,732   897,074   3,020,604   2,241,506 

Accrued salaries and wages

  597,856   655,853   695,695   716,860 

Gift card liabilities

  648,142   742,289   575,310   609,842 

Other accrued expenses

  291,353   293,094   442,337   316,751 

Dividend payable

  719,359   714,939   -   722,344 

Contract liabilities

  239,278   256,094   187,269   195,658 

Lease liability

  808,989   -   777,123   803,861 

Total current liabilities

  5,081,154   4,735,831   9,994,234   5,606,822 
        

Lease Liability, Less Current Portion

  2,257,837   -   1,557,719   1,894,904 

Long-Term Debt, Less Current Portion

  694,575   - 

Contract Liabilities, Less Current Portion

  976,651   1,096,478   889,228   960,151 
        

Commitments and Contingencies

                
        

Stockholders' Equity

                

Preferred stock, $.001 par value per share; 250,000 authorized; -0- shares issued and outstanding

  -   -   -   - 

Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, authorized 50,000 shares

  -   -   -   - 

Undesignated series, authorized 200,000 shares

  -   -   -   - 

Common stock, $.001 par value, 46,000,000 shares authorized, 5,991,162 shares and 5,957,827 shares issued and outstanding, respectively

  5,991   5,958 

Common stock, $.001 par value, 46,000,000 shares authorized, 6,067,461 shares and 6,019,532 shares issued and outstanding, respectively

  6,068   6,020 

Additional paid-in capital

  7,037,501   6,650,864   7,747,320   7,459,931 

Retained earnings

  13,927,209   13,733,010   8,298,295   11,889,560 
        

Total stockholders' equity

  20,970,701   20,389,832   16,051,683   19,355,511 
        

Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

 $29,286,343  $26,222,141  $29,187,439  $27,817,388 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.statements

 

4

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(unaudited)

 

 

Six Months Ended

  

Six Months Ended

 
 

August 31,

  

August 31,

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

2020

  

2019

 

Cash Flows From Operating Activities

                

Net Income

 $1,629,697  $1,327,759 

Net (loss) Income

 $(3,591,265) $1,629,697 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:            

Depreciation and amortization

  750,486   872,454   677,967   750,486 

Provision for obsolete inventory

  47,945   57,614   24,729   47,945 

Provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable

  108,283   40,800   1,468,815   108,283 

Asset impairment and store closure losses

  -   67,822   544,060   - 

Loss on sale or disposal of property and equipment

  5,796   26,020   7,823   5,796 

Expense recorded for stock compensation

  386,670   280,728   287,437   386,670 

Deferred income taxes

  101,959   38,814   (1,154,728)  101,959 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

                

Accounts receivable

  (267,491)  421,162   (141,690)  (267,491)

Refundable income taxes

  145,475   257,685   (71)  145,475 

Inventories

  212,138   (1,579,686)  (1,808,397)  212,138 

Other current assets

  (147,750)  (154,537)  19,445   (147,750)

Accounts payable

  213,734   58,005   580,966   213,734 

Accrued liabilities

  (153,885)  (254,540)  103,564   (153,885)

Contract liabilities

  (130,378)  (71,671)  (75,135)  (130,378)

Net cash provided by operating activities

  2,902,679   1,388,429 

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

  (3,056,480)  2,902,679 
                

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

                

Proceeds received on notes receivable

  74,296   55,612   44,995   74,296 

Purchase of intangible assets

  (99,047)  - 

Purchases of property and equipment

  (480,984)  (242,432)  (50,853)  (480,984)

(Increase) decrease in other assets

  312   (13,717)  -   312 

Net cash used in investing activities

  (406,376)  (200,537)  (104,905)  (406,376)
                

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

                

Payments on long-term debt

  (696,043)  (670,336)  -   (696,043)

Proceeds from long-term debt

  1,537,200   - 

Proceeds from the line of credit

  3,448,165   - 

Dividends paid

  (1,431,078)  (1,417,305)  (722,344)  (1,431,078)

Net cash used in financing activities

  (2,127,121)  (2,087,641)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

  4,263,021   (2,127,121)
                

Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents

  369,182   (899,749)  1,101,636   369,182 
                

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period

  5,384,027   6,072,984   4,822,071   5,384,027 
                

Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Period

 $5,753,209  $5,173,235  $5,923,707  $5,753,209 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.statements

 

5

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(unaudited)

 

          

Additional

         
  

Common Stock

      

Paid-in

  

Retained

     
  

Shares

  

Amount

  

Capital

  

Earnings

  

Total

 

Balance as of May 31, 2018

  5,905,436  $5,905  $6,286,952  $14,213,773  $20,506,630 

Net income

              750,815   750,815 

Issuance of common stock, vesting of restricted stock units and other

  43,224   43   (43)      - 

Share-based compensation

          124,921       124,921 

Common stock dividends

              (713,839)  (713,839)

Balance as of August 31, 2018

  5,948,660  $5,948  $6,411,830  $14,250,749  $20,668,527 
                     

Balance as of February 28, 2018

  5,903,436  $5,903  $6,131,147  $13,419,553  $19,556,603 

Net income

              1,327,759   1,327,759 

Issuance of common stock, vesting of restricted stock units and other

  45,224   45   (45)      - 

Share-based compensation

          280,728       280,728 

Common stock dividends

              (1,422,492)  (1,422,492)

Adoption of ASC 606

              925,929   925,929 

Balance as of August 31, 2018

  5,948,660  $5,948  $6,411,830  $14,250,749  $20,668,527 
                     

Balance as of May 31, 2019

  5,962,327  $5,962  $6,882,114  $13,728,480  $20,616,556 

Net income

              918,088   918,088 

Issuance of common stock, vesting of restricted stock units and other

  28,835   29   (29)      - 

Share-based compensation

          155,416       155,416 

Common stock dividends

              (719,359)  (719,359)

Balance as of August 31, 2019

  5,991,162  $5,991  $7,037,501  $13,927,209  $20,970,701 
                     

Balance as of February 28, 2019

  5,957,827   5,958  $6,650,864  $13,733,010  $20,389,832 

Net income

              1,629,697   1,629,697 

Issuance of common stock, vesting of restricted stock units and other

  33,335   33   (33)      - 

Share-based compensation

          386,670       386,670 

Common stock dividends

              (1,435,498)  (1,435,498)

Balance as of August 31, 2019

  5,991,162  $5,991  $7,037,501  $13,927,209  $20,970,701 
          

Additional

         
  

Common Stock

      

Paid-in

  

Retained

     
  

Shares

  

Amount

  

Capital

  

Earnings

  

Total

 

Balance as of May 31, 2019

  5,962,327  $5,962  $6,882,114  $13,728,480  $20,616,556 

Consolidated net (loss) income

              918,088   918,088 

Issuance of common stock, vesting of restricted stock units and other

  28,835   29   (29)      - 

Equity compensation, restricted stock units

          155,416       155,416 

Cash dividends declared

              (719,359)  (719,359)

Balance as of August 31, 2019

  5,991,162  $5,991  $7,037,501  $13,927,209  $20,970,701 
                     

Balance as of February 28, 2019

  5,957,827   5,958  $6,650,864  $13,733,010  $20,389,832 

Consolidated net (loss) income

              1,629,697   1,629,697 

Issuance of common stock, vesting of restricted stock units and other

  33,335   33   (33)      - 

Equity compensation, restricted stock units

          386,670       386,670 

Cash dividends declared

              (1,435,498)  (1,435,498)

Balance as of August 31, 2019

  5,991,162  $5,991  $7,037,501  $13,927,209  $20,970,701 
                     

Balance as of May 31, 2020

  6,060,663  $6,061  $7,603,608  $8,222,163  $15,831,832 

Consolidated net (loss) income

              76,132   76,132 

Issuance of common stock, vesting of restricted stock units and other

  6,798   7   (7)      - 

Equity compensation, restricted stock units

          143,719       143,719 

Cash dividends declared

              -   - 

Balance as of August 31, 2020

  6,067,461  $6,068  $7,747,320  $8,298,295  $16,051,683 
                     

Balance as of February 29, 2020

  6,019,532   6,020  $7,459,931  $11,889,560  $19,355,511 

Consolidated net (loss) income

              (3,591,265)  (3,591,265)

Issuance of common stock, vesting of restricted stock units and other

  47,929   48   (48)      - 

Equity compensation, restricted stock units

          287,437       287,437 

Cash dividends declared

              -   - 

Balance as of August 31, 2020

  6,067,461  $6,068  $7,747,320  $8,298,295  $16,051,683 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.statements

 

6

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1 – NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

Nature of Operations

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation, its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a (a Colorado corporation (“RMCF”)corporation), Aspen Leaf Yogurt, LLC a Colorado limited liability company (“ALY”), and U-Swirl International, Inc., a Nevada corporation (“U-Swirl”), and its 46%-owned subsidiary, U-Swirl, Inc., a Nevada corporation (“SWRL”) of which, RMCF had financial control until February 29, 2016 (collectively, the “Company”). All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

The Company is an international franchisor, confectionery manufacturer and retail operator. Founded in 1981, the Company is headquartered in Durango, Colorado and manufactures an extensive line of premium chocolate candies and other confectionery products. U-Swirl franchises and operates soft-serveself-serve frozen yogurt cafés. The Company also sells its candy in selected locations outside of its system of retail stores and through ecommerce channels, and licenses the use of its brand with certain consumer products.

 

U-Swirl operates self-serve frozen yogurt cafés under the names “U-Swirl,” “Yogurtini,” “CherryBerry,” “Yogli Mogli Frozen Yogurt,” “Fuzzy Peach Frozen Yogurt,” “Let’s Yo!” and “Aspen Leaf Yogurt.”

The Company’s revenues are currently derived from three principal sources, which are similar for its wholly owned subsidiaries RMCF and U-Swirl: (i)sources: sales to franchisees and others of chocolates and other confectionery products manufactured by the Company; (ii)the collection of initial franchise fees and royalties from franchisees’ sales; and sales at Company-owned stores of chocolates, frozen yogurt, and other confectionery products.

In FY 2020, we entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Edible Arrangements®, LLC and its affiliates (“Edible”) whereby we became the exclusive provider of certain branded chocolate products (includingto Edible, its affiliates and its franchisees (the “Strategic Alliance”). In connection with the Strategic Alliance, the Company entered into a strategic alliance agreement, an exclusive supplier operating agreement and a warrant agreement with Edible. Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory branded products manufacturedare available for purchase both on Edible’s website as well as through over 1,000 franchised Edible Arrangement locations nationwide. In addition, due to Edible’s significant e-commerce expertise and scale, we have also executed an ecommerce licensing agreement with Edible, whereby Edible sells a wide variety of chocolates, candies and other confectionery products produced by the Company); (iii)Company or its franchisees through Edible’s websites. Edible is also responsible for all ecommerce marketing and sales for the collectionbroader Rocky Mountain ecommerce ecosystem. In January 2020, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of initial franchise fees and royalties from franchisees’ salesEdible was elected to the Company’s Board of both confectionary products and frozen yogurt.Directors at the Company’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

 

The following table summarizes the number of stores operating under the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory brand and frozen yogurt cafés as of August 31, 2019:2020:

 

 

Sold, Not Yet

Open

  

Open

  

Total

  

Sold, Not Yet

Open

  

Open

  

Total

 

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

                        

Company-owned stores

  -   2   2   -   2   2 

Franchise stores - Domestic stores and kiosks

  1   179   180   5   162   167 

International license stores

  1   63   64   1   58   59 

Cold Stone Creamery - co-branded

  7   95   102   5   98   103 

U-Swirl (Including all associated brands)

                        

Company-owned stores

  -   1   1 

Company-owned stores - co-branded

  -   3   3   -   3   3 

Franchise stores - Domestic stores

  -   82   82   -   69   69 

Franchise stores - Domestic - co-branded

  1   8   9   1   7   8 

International license stores

  -   2   2   -   2   2 

Total

  10   435   445   12   401   413 

7

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared by the Company, without audit, and reflect all adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial reporting and Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) regulations. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. Certain amounts previously presented for prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. In the opinion of management, the consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments (of a normal and recurring nature) which are necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods presented. The results of operations for the three and six months ended August 31, 20192020 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire fiscal year, or any other future period.

 

These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

The year-end balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements for the year ended February 29, 2020, but does not include all disclosures required by GAAP.

Subsequent Events

Management evaluated all activity of the Company through the issue date of the financial statements and concluded that no subsequent events have occurred that would require recognition or disclosure in the financial statements. 

As discussed in more detail throughout this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three and six months ended August 31, 2020 (this “Quarterly Report”), we have experienced significant business disruptions resulting from efforts to contain the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus ("COVID-19"), including the vast mandated self-quarantines of customers and closures of non-essential business throughout the United States and internationally. Nearly all of the Company-owned and franchise stores were directly and negatively impacted by public health measures taken in response to COVID-19, with nearly all locations experiencing reduced operations as a result of, among other things, modified business hours and store and mall closures. As a result, franchisees and licensees are not ordering products for their stores in line with historical amounts. This trend has negatively impacted, and is expected to continue to negatively impact, among other things, factory sales, retail sales and royalty and marketing fees. Beginning in May 2020 and continuing through August 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, began to re-open. As of August 31, 2020 approximately 27 stores have not re-opened and the future of these locations is uncertain.  This is a closure rate significantly higher than historical levels. By August 31, 2020, certain stores have met or exceeded pre-COVID-19 levels, however, many retail environments have continued to be adversely impacted by changes to consumer behavior as a result of COVID-19. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre-COVID-19 levels.

In addition, as previously announced in May 2020, the Board of Directors suspended the Company’s first quarter cash dividend payment to preserve cash and provide additional flexibility in the current environment impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the Board of Directors has suspended future quarterly dividends until the significant uncertainty of the current public health crisis and economic climate has passed, and the Board of Directors determines that resumption of dividend payments is in the best interest of the Company and its stockholders.

During this challenging time, the Company’s foremost priority is the safety and well-being of our employees, customers, franchisees and communities. In addition to the already stringent practices for the quality and safety of the Company’s confections, the Company is diligently following health and safety guidance issued by the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and state and local governmental agencies. The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the retail industry as containment measures continue to impact the Company’s operations and the retail industry. Numerous countries, states and local governments have effected ordinances to protect the public through social distancing, which has caused, and we expect will continue to cause, a significant decrease in, among other things, retail traffic and as a result, factory sales, retail sales and royalty and marketing fees. With that said, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory products remain available for sale online. The Company’s current focus is on supporting its franchisees and licensees during this challenging time and driving growth in online sales, especially in light of the ecommerce licensing agreement with Edible, as discussed below, while also sensibly managing costs. The number of Company-owned and franchise stores remaining open may change frequently and significantly due to the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 outbreak.

 

7
8

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Subsequent Events

On September 30, 2019In these challenging and unprecedented times, management is taking all necessary and appropriate action to maximize liquidity as the Company executed a Revolving Linenavigates the current landscape. These actions include significantly reducing operating expenses and production volume to reflect reduced sales volumes as well as the elimination of Credit Note with Wells Fargo Bank. This document was executedall non-essential spending and capital expenditures. Further, in an abundance of caution and to renewmaintain ample financial flexibility, the existing $5 millionCompany drew down the full amount under our line of credit and extend the maturity date from September 30, 2019Company received loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”). See Note 9 for additional information regarding our debt obligations. The receipt of funds under our debt obligations has allowed the Company to September 30, 2021.temporarily avoid workforce reduction measures amidst a steep decline in revenue and production volume. While the Company believes it has sufficient liquidity with its current cash position, the Company will continue to monitor and evaluate all financing alternatives as necessary as these unprecedented events evolve. For more information, please see Item 1A “Risk Factors—The Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic Has, and May Continue to, Materially and Adversely Affect our Sales, Earnings, Financial Condition and Liquidity” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on May 29, 2020 with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In August 2018, the SEC adopted amendments to certain disclosure requirements in Securities Act Release No. 33-10532, Disclosure Update and Simplification. These amendments eliminate, modify, or integrate into other SEC requirements certain disclosure rules. Among the amendments is the requirement to present an analysis of changes in stockholders’ equity in the interim financial statements included in Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. The analysis, which can be presented as a footnote or separate statement, is requiredExcept for the current and comparative quarter and year-to-date interim periods. The amendmentsrecent accounting pronouncements described below, other recent accounting pronouncements are effective for all filings madenot expected to have a material impact on or after November 5, 2018. The Company adopted these amendments in its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 31, 2019.our consolidated financial statements.

 

In June 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. ASU 2016-13 significantly changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments. ASU 2016-13 will require immediate recognition of estimated credit losses expected to occur over the remaining life of many financial assets, which will generally result in earlier recognition of allowances for credit losses on loans and other financial instruments. ASU 2016-13 is effective for the Company's fiscal year beginning March 1, 20202023 and subsequent interim periods. The Company is currently evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will have on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

 

In February 2016,January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases2017-04, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 842),350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment. ASU 2017-04 simplifies the manner in which an entity is required to test goodwill for impairment by eliminating Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Under the amendments in ASU 2017-04, an entity should (1) perform its annual or interim goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, and (2) recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, with the understanding that the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. Additionally, ASU 2017-04 requires any reporting unit with a zero or negative carrying amount to perform Step 2 of the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet by lessees for those leases currently classified as operating leases under ASC 840 “Leases.” These amendments also require qualitative disclosures along with specific quantitative disclosures. The Companygoodwill impairment test. We adopted ASU 2016-02 as of2017-04 effective March 1, 2020 (the first quarter of our 2021 fiscal year). The adoption of ASU 2017-04 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In December 2019, using the modified retrospective method.FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes, which simplifies the accounting for income taxes. This method allowsguidance will be effective for entities for the new standardfiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2020 on a prospective basis, with early adoption permitted. We will adopt ASU 2019-12 effective March 1, 2021 and do not expect the adoption of this guidance to be applied retrospectively throughhave a cumulative catch-up adjustment recognized upon adoption. material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Related Party Transactions

As described above, in FY 2020, we entered into a result, comparative informationlong-term strategic alliance whereby we became the exclusive provider of certain branded chocolate products to Edible, its affiliates and its franchisees. Also in FY 2020, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Edible was elected to the Company’s financial statements has not been restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods. The Company recorded a RightBoard of Use Asset and Lease Liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheet of $3.3 million upon adoption. The impact of the new standard did not affectDirectors at the Company’s cash flows or resultsAnnual Meeting of operations. The lease liability reflectsStockholders. During the present valuesix months ended August 31, 2020, the Company recognized approximately $949,000 of revenue related to purchases from Edible, its affiliates and its franchisees. As of August 31, 2020 the Company’s estimated future minimum lease payments over the lease term, which includes options that are likely to be exercised, discounted using an incremental borrowing rate or implicit rate. See Note 11 - Leasing Arrangements for additional information.company recognized approximately $718,000 of accounts receivable from Edible its affiliates and its franchisees.

 

 

NOTE 2 – EARNINGS PER SHARESUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

 

Basic earnings per share is calculated using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur from common shares issuable through the settlement of restricted stock units. Restricted stock units become dilutive within the period granted and remain dilutive until the units vest and are issued as common stock.

  

Six Months Ended

 
  

August 31,

 

Cash paid for:

 

2020

  

2019

 

Interest

 $46,441  $16,677 

Income taxes

  71   314,417 

Non-cash Operating Activities

        

Accrued Inventory

  394,697   237,842 

Non-cash Financing Activities

        

Dividend payable

 $-  $719,359 

 

NOTE 3 – INVENTORIES

Inventories consist of the following:

  

August 31, 2019

  

February 28, 2019

 

Ingredients and supplies

 $2,347,557  $2,612,954 

Finished candy

  1,971,270   1,983,854 

U-Swirl food and packaging

  55,029   44,696 

Reserve for slow moving inventory

  (178,658)  (371,147)

Total inventories

 $4,195,198  $4,270,357 

8
9

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

NOTE 4 – PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET3 –REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS

 

PropertyEffective March 1, 2018, the Company adopted ASC 606, which provides that revenues are to be recognized when control of promised goods or services is transferred to a customer in an amount that reflects the consideration expected to be received for those goods or services. This new standard does not impact the Company's recognition of revenue from sales of confectionary items to the Company’s franchisees and equipment consistsothers, or in its Company-owned stores as those sales are recognized at the time of the underlying sale and are presented net of sales taxes and discounts. The standard also does not change the recognition of royalties and marketing fees from franchised or licensed locations, which are based on a percent of sales and recognized at the time the sales occur. The standard does change the timing in which the Company recognizes initial fees from franchisees and licensees for new franchise locations and renewals that affect the term of the franchise agreement. The Company generally receives a fee associated with the Franchise Agreement or License Agreement (collectively “Customer Contracts”) at the time that the Customer Contract is entered. These Customer Contracts have a term of up to 20 years, however the majority of Customer Contracts have a term of 10 years. During the term of the Customer Contract the Company is obligated to many performance obligations that the Company has not determined are distinct. The resulting treatment of revenue from Customer Contracts is that the revenue is recognized proportionately over the life of the Customer Contract.

Initial Franchise Fees, License Fees, Transfer Fees and Renewal Fees

The Company's policy for recognizing initial franchise and renewal fees through February 28, 2018 was to recognize initial franchise fees upon new store openings and renewals that impact the term of the franchise agreement upon renewal. In accordance with the new guidance, the initial franchise services are not distinct from the continuing rights or services offered during the term of the franchise agreement, and will be treated as a single performance obligation. Beginning March 1, 2018, initial franchise fees are being recognized as the Company satisfies the performance obligation over the term of the franchise agreement, which is generally 10-15 years.

The following table summarizes contract liabilities as of August 31, 2020 and August 31, 2019:

  

Six Months Ended

 
  

August 31:

 
  

2020

  

2019

 

Contract liabilities at the beginning of the year:

 $1,155,809  $1,352,572 

Revenue recognized

  (128,636)  (188,209)

Contract fees received

  53,500   57,833 

Amortized gain on the financed sale of equipment

  (4,176)  (6,267)

Contract liabilities at the end of the period:

 $1,076,497  $1,215,929 

At August 31, 2020, annual revenue expected to be recognized in the future, related to performance obligations that are not yet fully satisfied, are estimated to be the following:

 

  

August 31, 2019

  

February 28, 2019

 

Land

 $513,618  $513,618 

Building

  5,031,395   5,031,395 

Machinery and equipment

  10,205,508   10,233,119 

Furniture and fixtures

  850,934   864,944 

Leasehold improvements

  1,151,346   1,131,659 

Transportation equipment

  435,306   422,458 
   18,188,107   18,197,193 
         

Less accumulated depreciation

  (12,330,443)  (12,411,054)

Property and equipment, net

 $5,857,664  $5,786,139 

FY 21

 $94,959 

FY 22

  182,079 

FY 23

  170,353 

FY 24

  137,744 

FY 25

  124,461 

Thereafter

  366,901 

Total

 $1,076,497 

 

NOTE 5 – STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Cash Dividend

The Company paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per common share on March 15, 2019 to stockholders of record on March 5, 2019. The Company paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share of common stock on June 14, 2019 to stockholders of record on June 4, 2019. The Company declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share of common stock on August 16, 2019, which was paid on September 13, 2019 to stockholders of record on September 4, 2019.

Future declaration of dividends will depend on, among other things, the Company's results of operations, capital requirements, financial condition and on such other factors as the Board of Directors may in its discretion consider relevant and in the best long-term interest of the Company’s stockholders.

Stock Repurchases

On July 15, 2014, the Company publicly announced a plan to repurchase up to $3.0 million of its common stock in the open market or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriate by management. On January 13, 2015, the Company announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of its common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, the Company announced a further increase to the repurchase plan by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of its common stock under the repurchase plan. The Company did not repurchase any shares during the three and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

Stock-Based CompensationGift Cards

 

The Company’s 2007 Equity Incentive Plan (as amendedfranchisees sell gift cards, which do not have expiration dates or non-usage fees. The proceeds from the sale of gift cards by the franchisees are accumulated by the Company and restated on August 8, 2013) authorizespaid out to the granting of stock awards to employees, non-employee directors, consultants and other participants, including stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units.

franchisees upon customer redemption. The Company has historically accumulated gift card liabilities and has not recognized $155,416 and $386,670breakage associated with the gift card liability. The adoption of stock-based compensation expense duringASC 606 requires the three- and six-month periods ended August 31, 2019, respectively, compared to $124,921 and $280,728 during the three- and six-month periods ended August 31, 2018, respectively. Compensation costs related to stock-based compensation are generally amortized over the vesting perioduse of the stock awards.“proportionate” method for recognizing breakage, which the Company has not historically utilized. Upon adoption of ASC 606 the Company began recognizing breakage from gift cards when the gift card is redeemed by the customer or the Company determines the likelihood of the gift card being redeemed by the customer is remote (“gift card breakage”). The determination of the gift card breakage rate is based upon Company-specific historical redemption patterns.

 

9
10

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 4 – DISAGGREGATION OF REVENUE

The following table presents disaggregated revenue by method of recognition and segment:

Three Months Ended August 31, 2020

Revenues recognized over time under ASC 606:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 
                     

Franchise fees

 $49,130  $-  $-  $24,490  $73,620 

Revenues recognized at a point in time:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 

Factory sales

  -   3,498,752   -   -   3,498,752 

Retail sales

  -   -   193,702   301,698   495,400 

Royalty and marketing fees

  991,006   -   -   268,624   1,259,630 

Total

 $1,040,136  $3,498,752  $193,702  $594,812  $5,327,402 

Three Months Ended August 31, 2019

Revenues recognized over time under ASC 606:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 
                     

Franchise fees

 $65,327  $-  $-  $16,602  $81,929 

Revenues recognized at a point in time:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 

Factory sales

  -   4,482,373   -   -   4,482,373 

Retail sales

  -   -   265,662   636,005   901,667 

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,449,157   -   -   470,144   1,919,301 

Total

 $1,514,484  $4,482,373  $265,662  $1,122,751  $7,385,270 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2020

Revenues recognized over time under ASC 606:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 
                     

Franchise fees

 $90,832  $-  $-  $37,804  $128,636 

Revenues recognized at a point in time:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 

Factory sales

  -   5,633,367   -   -   5,633,367 

Retail sales

  -   -   253,683   429,313   682,996 

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,203,098   -   -   381,742   1,584,840 

Total

 $1,293,930  $5,633,367  $253,683  $848,859  $8,029,839 

11

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019

The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity during

Revenues recognized over time under ASC 606:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 
                     

Franchise fees

 $145,346  $-  $-  $42,863  $188,209 

Revenues recognized at a point in time:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 

Factory sales

  -   10,088,393   -   -   10,088,393 

Retail sales

  -   -   498,081   1,258,177   1,756,258 

Royalty and marketing fees

  2,796,893   -   -   981,516   3,778,409 

Total

 $2,942,239  $10,088,393  $498,081  $2,282,556  $15,811,269 

NOTE 5 – INVENTORIES

Inventories consist of the six months ended August 31, 2019 and 2018:following:

 

  

Six Months Ended

 
  

August 31,

 
  

2019

  

2018

 

Outstanding non-vested restricted stock units as of February 28:

  25,002   77,594 

Granted

  270,000   - 

Vested

  (28,502)  (43,224)

Cancelled/forfeited

  -   (200)

Outstanding non-vested restricted stock units as of August 31:

  266,500   34,170 
         

Weighted average grant date fair value

 $9.40  $12.05 

Weighted average remaining vesting period (in years)

  5.14   0.88 
  

August 31, 2020

  

February 29, 2020

 

Ingredients and supplies

 $2,772,234  $2,186,652 

Finished candy

  3,068,858   1,827,767 

U-Swirl food and packaging

  41,814   56,708 

Reserve for slow moving inventory

  (156,480)  (320,149)

Total inventories

 $5,726,426  $3,750,978 

 

The Company issued an aggregate of 4,833 fully vested, unrestricted shares of common stock to non-employee directors during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to an aggregate of 2,000 shares issued during the six months ended August 31, 2018. In connection with these non-employee director stock issuances, the Company recognized $45,652 and $24,480 of stock-based compensation expense during the six months ended August 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

During the three- and six-month periods ended August 31, 2019, the Company recognized $152,289 and $341,018, respectively, of stock-based compensation expense related to restricted stock unit grants. The restricted stock unit grants generally vest in equal annual or quarterly installments over a period of five to six years. During the six-month periods ended August 31, 2019 and 2018, 28,502 and 43,224 restricted stock units vested and were issued as common stock, respectively. Total unrecognized compensation expense of non-vested, non-forfeited restricted stock units granted as of August 31, 2019 was $2,309,265, which is expected to be recognized over the weighted-average period of 5.14 years.

The Company has no outstanding stock options as of August 31, 2019.

 

NOTE 6 – SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATIONPROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

Property and equipment consists of the following:

 

  

Six Months Ended

 
  

August 31,

 

 

 

2019

  

2018

 
Cash paid for:        

Interest, net

 $808  $33,006 

Income taxes

  314,417   166,545 

Non-cash Operating Activities

        

Accrued Inventory

  237,842   96,454 

Non-cash Financing Activities

        

Dividend payable

 $719,359  $713,839 
  

August 31, 2020

  

February 29, 2020

 

Land

 $513,618  $513,618 

Building

  5,031,395   5,031,395 

Machinery and equipment

  10,037,869   10,664,396 

Furniture and fixtures

  797,303   852,557 

Leasehold improvements

  985,407   1,154,396 

Transportation equipment

  429,789   440,989 
   17,795,381   18,657,351 
         

Less accumulated depreciation

  (12,261,480)  (12,719,338)

Property and equipment, net

 $5,533,901  $5,938,013 

 

Depreciation expense related to property and equipment totaled $192,049 and $386,606 during the three and six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to $196,288 and $397,398 during the three and six months ended August 31, 2019, respectively.

10
12

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 7 – GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Intangible assets consist of the following:

       

August 31, 2020

  

February 29, 2020

 
  

Amortization

Period (in years)

  

Gross Carrying

Value

  

Accumulated

Amortization

  

Gross Carrying

Value

  

Accumulated

Amortization

 

Intangible assets subject to amortization

                     

Store design

  10   $394,826  $216,403  $295,779  $215,653 

Packaging licenses

 3-5   120,830   120,830   120,830   120,830 

Packaging design

  10    430,973   430,973   430,973   430,973 

Trademark/Non-competition agreements

  5-20   556,339   323,722   715,339   297,072 

Franchise rights

  20    5,979,637   3,195,910   5,979,637   2,931,949 

Total

      $7,482,605  $4,287,838  $7,542,558  $3,996,477 

Intangible assets not subject to amortization

                 

Franchising segment-

                     

Company stores goodwill

      $515,065      $832,308     

Franchising goodwill

       97,318       97,318     

Manufacturing segment-goodwill

       97,318       97,318     

Trademark

       20,000       20,000     

Total goodwill

       729,701       1,046,944     
                      

Total Intangible Assets

      $8,212,306  $4,287,838  $8,589,502  $3,996,477 

Amortization expense related to intangible assets totaled $142,804 and $291,361 during the three and six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to $176,544 and $353,088 during the three and six months ended August 31, 2019, respectively.

At August 31, 2020, annual amortization of intangible assets, based upon the Company’s existing intangible assets and current useful lives, is estimated to be the following:

2021

  274,705 

2022

  466,554 

2023

  391,988 

2024

  329,267 

2025

  277,022 

Thereafter

  1,281,184 

Total

 $3,020,720 

During FY 2020, the Company initiated a store design project.  The initiative is expected to add approximately $250,000 of intangible assets, of which, $174,000 was recorded as of August 31, 2020.  This amount will be subject to amortization upon conclusion of the project.

NOTE 8 – IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

We assess the potential impairment of our long-lived assets on an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of the assets or asset group may not be recoverable. Due to the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations, we determined it was necessary to perform an interim test of our long-lived assets during the three months ended May 31, 2020. Based on the results of these assessments, we recorded $545,000 of goodwill impairment expense. This expense is presented within general and administrative expense on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. No additional tests for impairment were determined to be necessary during the three months ended August 31, 2020.

The assessment of our goodwill, trademark and long-lived asset fair values includes many assumptions that are subject to risk and uncertainties. The primary assumptions, which are all Level 3 inputs of the fair value hierarchy (inputs to the valuation methodology that are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement), used in our impairment testing consist of:

Expected future cash flows from operation of our Company-owned units.

Forecasted future royalty revenue, marketing revenue and associated expenses.

Projected rate of royalty savings on trademarks.

Our cost of capital.

13

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

As of August 31, 2020, costs associated with the impairment of long-lived and intangible assets consist of the following:

Company store goodwill impairment

 $317,243 

Trademark intangible asset impairment

  159,000 

Company-owned store impairment of long-lived assets and inventory

  68,558 
     

Total

 $544,801 

Certain interim tests did not indicate a need for impairment. Franchise rights, store design, manufacturing segment goodwill and franchising goodwill tests succeeded during the interim period. We believe we have made reasonable estimates and judgements, however, further COVID-19-related impacts could cause interim testing to be performed in future periods and further impairments recorded if testing of impairments are not successful in future periods.

 

NOTE 79OPERATING SEGMENTSLINE OF CREDIT AND LONG-TERM DEBT

 

The Company classifies its business interests into five reportable segments: Franchising, Manufacturing, Retail Stores, U-Swirl operationshas a $5.0 million credit line for general corporate and Other. The accounting policiesworking capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure, in light of the segments areCOVID-19 pandemic and the samerelated economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit line, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of the Company’s assets, except retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. At August 31, 2020, the Company was not compliant with a covenant of the line of credit that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the line of credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as those describedthe trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal in September 2021 and the summary of significant accounting policies in Note 1Company believes it is likely to these consolidated financial statements and Note 1be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included inrecovery from the impacts of COVID-19.

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K forlong-term debt is comprised of promissory notes pursuant to the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.PPP, under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (the “SBA Loans”). The Company evaluates performancereceived total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature in April 2022 and allocates resourceshave a 1.00% interest rate, and are subject to the terms and conditions applicable to loans administered by the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties. As of August 31, 2020, the Company is in compliance with all provisions related to the SBA Loans.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of default relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in whole or in part by applying for forgiveness pursuant to the CARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on operating contribution, which excludes unallocatedcorporate generala formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by the Company during the period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and administrative costs and income tax expense or benefit. The Company’s reportable segments are strategic businessescertain qualified utility payments, provided that, utilize common merchandising, distribution and marketing functions, as well as common information systems and corporate administration. All inter-segment sales prices are market based. Each segment is managed separately becauseamong other things, at least 60-75% of the differences in required infrastructureloan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the differencePPP, the Company believes it has used the proceeds from the SBA Loans for qualifying expenses. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of the SBA Loans in products and services:whole or in part. As of August 31, 2020, the Company had recorded approximately $5,855 of interest expense payable related to the SBA Loans.

 

Three Months Ended

August 31, 2019

 

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total revenues

 $1,515,805  $4,714,682  $265,662  $1,122,751  $-  $7,618,900 

Intersegment revenues

  (1,321)  (232,309)  -   -   -   (233,630)

Revenue from external customers

  1,514,484   4,482,373   265,662   1,122,751   -   7,385,270 

Segment profit (loss)

  828,978   955,360   7,979   296,880   (841,434)  1,247,763 

Total assets

  1,445,041   11,838,237   1,005,356   5,620,012   9,377,697   29,286,343 

Capital expenditures

  (2,040)  162,127   23,106   1,673   12,570   197,436 

Total depreciation & amortization

 $10,353  $151,848  $2,533  $185,208  $22,891  $372,833 

Three Months Ended

August 31, 2018

 

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total revenues

 $1,470,486  $5,032,787  $298,359  $1,250,905  $-  $8,052,537 

Intersegment revenues

  (1,732)  (250,717)  -   -   -   (252,449)

Revenue from external customers

  1,468,754   4,782,070   298,359   1,250,905   -   7,800,088 

Segment profit (loss)

  693,383   1,070,613   (120,262)  229,818   (847,923)  1,025,629 

Total assets

  1,199,536   13,332,652   1,011,649   5,920,971   6,065,406   27,530,214 

Capital expenditures

  6   61,152   1,734   9,966   39,502   112,360 

Total depreciation & amortization

 $11,631  $142,697  $11,179  $241,033  $28,409  $434,949 

Six Months Ended

August 31, 2019

 

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total revenues

 $2,944,846  $10,581,154  $498,081  $2,282,556  $-  $16,306,637 

Intersegment revenues

  (2,607)  (492,761)  -   -   -   (495,368)

Revenue from external customers

  2,942,239   10,088,393   498,081   2,282,556   -   15,811,269 

Segment profit (loss)

  1,446,888   2,124,047   (7,033)  576,043   (1,948,398)  2,191,547 

Total assets

  1,445,041   11,838,237   1,005,356   5,620,012   9,377,697   29,286,343 

Capital expenditures

  8,500   385,679   32,624   1,673   52,508   480,984 

Total depreciation & amortization

 $21,183  $301,980  $5,143  $375,977  $46,203  $750,486 

11
14

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

As of August 31, 2020 and February 29, 2020, notes payable consisted of the following:

Six Months Ended

August 31, 2018

 

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total revenues

 $2,783,691  $10,903,302  $659,794  $2,384,159  $-  $16,730,946 

Intersegment revenues

  (2,767)  (562,006)  -   -   -   (564,773)

Revenue from external customers

  2,780,924   10,341,296   659,794   2,384,159   -   16,166,173 

Segment profit (loss)

  1,182,654   2,239,948   (198,756)  364,973   (1,798,016)  1,790,803 

Total assets

  1,199,536   13,332,652   1,011,649   5,920,971   6,065,406   27,530,214 

Capital expenditures

  3,535   172,917   3,805   13,304   48,871   242,432 

Total depreciation & amortization

 $23,556  $283,724  $23,854  $485,084  $56,236  $872,454 
  

August 31, 2020

  

February 29, 2020

 

Paycheck protection program note payable in monthly installments of principal and interest at 1.0% per annum through April 2022

 $1,542,306  $- 

Less: current maturities

  (847,731)  - 

Long-term obligations

 $694,575  $- 

 

Revenue from one customer of the Company’s Manufacturing segment represented approximately $1.5 million, or 9.3 percent, of the Company’s revenues from external customers during the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $1.4 million, or 8.8 percent, of the Company’s revenues from external customers during the six months ended August 31, 2018.

 

NOTE 810GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETSSTOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

Intangible assets consistCash Dividend

The Company paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per common share on March 15, 2019 to stockholders of record on March 5, 2019. The Company paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share of common stock on June 14, 2019 to stockholders of record on June 4, 2019. The Company paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share of common stock on September 13, 2019 to stockholders of record on September 4, 2019. The Company paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share of common stock on December 6, 2019 to stockholders of record on November 22, 2019. The Company paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share of common stock on March 13, 2020 to stockholders of record on February 28, 2020.

Future declarations of dividends will depend on, among other things, the Company's results of operations, financial condition, capital requirements, and on such other factors as the Company's Board of Directors may in its discretion consider relevant and in the best long-term interest of the following:

       

August 31, 2019

  

February 28, 2019

 
  

Amortization Period (Years)

  

Gross Carrying Value

  

Accumulated Amortization

  

Gross Carrying Value

  

Accumulated Amortization

 

Intangible assets subject to amortization

                     

Store design

  10   $220,778  $214,903  $220,778  $214,152 

Packaging licenses

  3-5   120,830   120,830   120,830   120,830 

Packaging design

  10    430,973   430,973   430,973   430,973 

Trademark/Non-competition agreements

  5-20   715,339   260,349   715,339   223,628 

Franchise rights

  20    5,979,637   2,616,333   5,979,637   2,300,717 

Total

      $7,467,557  $3,643,388  $7,467,557  $3,290,300 
Intangible assets not subject to amortization                     

Franchising segment-

                     

Company stores goodwill

      $832,308      $832,308     

Franchising goodwill

       97,318       97,318     

Manufacturing segment-goodwill

       97,318       97,318     

Trademark

       20,000       20,000     

Total goodwill

       1,046,944       1,046,944     
                      

Total Intangible Assets

      $8,514,501  $3,643,388  $8,514,501  $3,290,300 

Amortization expense related to intangible assets totaled $353,088 and $422,573 during the six months ended August 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.Company’s stockholders.

 

At August 31, 2019, annual amortizationAs previously announced in May 2020, the Board of intangible assets, based uponDirectors suspended the Company’s existing intangible assetsfirst quarter cash dividend payment to preserve cash and provide additional flexibility in the current useful lives,environment as a result of the economic impact of COVID-19. Furthermore, the Board of Directors has suspended future quarterly dividends until the significant uncertainty of the current public health crisis and global economic climate has passed, and the Board of Directors determines that resumption of dividend payments is estimated to bein the following:

2020

  353,088 

2021

  594,229 

2022

  490,060 

2023

  411,607 

2024

  345,642 

Thereafter

  1,629,543 

Total

 $3,824,169 

12

Tablebest interest of Contents

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 9 – COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH COMPANY-OWNED STORE CLOSURESthe Company and its stockholders.

 

Costs associated with Company-owned store closures wereStock Repurchases

On July 15, 2014, the resultCompany publicly announced a plan to repurchase up to $3.0 million of closing certain underperforming Company-owned locationsits common stock in the open market or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriate by management. On January 13, 2015, the Company announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of its common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, the Company announced a further increase to the repurchase plan by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of its common stock under the repurchase plan. The Company did not repurchase any shares during the three and six months ended August 31, 2018. Costs associated with Company-owned store closures of $118,793 and $176,981 were incurred during the three and the six months ended August 31, 2018, respectively.

There were no comparable costs incurred during the three and six months ended August 31, 2019.

NOTE 10 – NOTE PAYABLE

The Company’s long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note, the proceeds of which were loaned to SWRL and used to finance SWRL’s business acquisitions. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020.

As of August 31, 2020, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

Warrants

In consideration of Edible entering into the exclusive supplier agreement and the performance of its obligations therein, on December 20, 2019, and February 28, 2019, notes payable consistedthe Company issued Edible a warrant (the “Warrant”) to purchase up to 960,677 shares of the following:

  

August 31, 2019

  

February 28, 2019

 

Promissory note

 $480,445  $1,176,488 

Less: current maturities

  (480,445)  (1,176,488)

Long-term obligations

 $-  $- 

NOTE 11 – LEASING ARRANGEMENTSCompany’s common stock (the “Warrant Shares”) at an exercise price of $8.76 per share. The Warrant Shares vest in annual tranches in varying amounts following each contract year under the exclusive supplier agreement, subject to, and only upon, Edible’s achievement of certain revenue thresholds on an annual or cumulative five-year basis in connection with its performance under the exclusive supplier agreement. The Warrant expires six months after the final and conclusive determination of revenue thresholds for the fifth contract year and the cumulative revenue determination in accordance with the terms of the Warrant.

 

The Company conducts its retail operations in facilities leased under non-cancelable operating leases of up to ten years. Certain leases contain renewal options for between five and ten additional years at increased monthly rentals. Some ofdetermined that the leases provide for contingent rentals based on sales in excess of predetermined base levels. 

The Company acts as primary lessee of some franchised store premises, which the Company then subleases to franchisees, but the majority of existing locations are leased by the franchisee directly.

In some instances, the Company has leased space for its Company-owned locations that are now occupied by franchisees. When the Company-owned location was sold or transferred, the store was subleased to the franchisee who is responsible for the monthly rent and other obligations under the lease.

The Company also leases trucking equipment and warehouse space in support of its manufacturing operations. Expense associated with trucking and warehouse leases is included in cost of sales on the consolidated statements of income.

ASU 2016-02 allows, as a practical expedient, the retention of the classification of existing leases as operating or financing. All of the Company’s leases are classified as operating leases and that classification has been retained upon adoption. The Company does not believe the utilization of this practical expedient has a material impact on lease classifications.

The Company accounts for payments related to lease liabilities on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Lease expense recognized for the six months ended August 31, 2019 and 2018 in the Consolidated Statements of Income was $478,707 and $522,181, respectively.

The amount of the ‘Right of Use Asset’ and ‘Lease Liability’ recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets upon the adoption of ASU 2016-02 was $3.3 million. The lease liability reflects the presentgrant date fair value of the Company’s estimated future minimum lease payments over the life of its leases. This includes known escalationswarrants was de minimis and renewal option periods reasonably assured of being exercised. Typically, renewal options are considered reasonably assured of being exercised if the sales performancedid not record any amount in consideration of the location remains strong. Therefore,warrants. The Company utilized a Monte Carlo model for purposes of determining the ‘Right of Use Asset’grant date fair value.

Stock-Based Compensation

Under the Company’s 2007 Equity Incentive Plan (as amended and ‘Lease Liability’ include an assumption on renewal options that have not yet been exercised byrestated) (the “2007 Plan”), the Company may authorize and are not currently a future obligation. The Company has separated non-lease components from lease components ingrant stock awards to employees, non-employee directors and certain other eligible participants, including stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units. On September 17, 2020, the recognitionCompany’s stockholders approved an amendment and restatement of the ‘Right2007 Plan to (1) increase the number of Use Asset’authorized shares under the 2007 Plan by 300,000 shares and ‘Lease Liability’ except in instances where such costs were not practical(2) to separate. To the extent that occupancy costs, such as site maintenance, are included in the ‘Right of Use Asset’ and ‘Lease Liability,’ the impact is immaterial. For franchised locations, the related occupancy costs including property taxes, insurance and site maintenance are generally required to be paid by the franchisees as part of the franchise arrangement. In addition, the Company is the lessee under non-store related leases such as storage facilities and trucking equipment. For leases where the implicit rate is not readily determinable, the Company uses an incremental borrowing rate to calculate the lease liability that represents an estimate of the interest rate the Company would incur to borrow on a collateralized basis overextend the term of a lease. The weighted average discount rate usedthe 2007 Plan to September 17, 2030. As of the filing date of this report, there were 319,324 shares available for operating leases was 3.4%issuance as of August 31, 2019. The total estimated future minimum lease payments is $3.4 million.awards under the 2007 Plan.

 

13
15

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

AsThe Company recognized $143,719 and $287,437 of stock-based compensation expense during the three- and six-month periods ended August 31, 2020, respectively, compared to $155,416 and $386,670 during the three- and six-month periods ended August 31, 2019, maturitiesrespectively. Compensation costs related to stock-based compensation are generally amortized over the vesting period of lease liabilities for the Company’s operating leases were as follows:stock awards.

The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity during the six months ended August 31, 2020 and 2019:

 

FY 20

 $416,147 

FY 21

  819,004 

FY 22

  694,755 

FY 23

  437,446 

FY 24

  315,963 

Thereafter

  717,039 

Total

 $3,400,354 
     

Less: imputed interest

  (333,528)

Present value of lease liabilities:

 $3,066,826 
     

Weighted average lease term (years)

  7.0 
  

Six Months Ended

 
  

August 31,

 
  

2020

  

2019

 

Outstanding non-vested restricted stock units as of February 28 or 29:

  265,555   25,002 

Granted

  -   270,000 

Vested

  (47,929)  (28,502)

Cancelled/forfeited

  -   - 

Outstanding non-vested restricted stock units as of August 31:

  217,626   266,500 
         

Weighted average grant date fair value

 $9.40  $9.40 

Weighted average remaining vesting period (in years)

  4.15   5.14 

The Company did not issue any unrestricted shares of stock to non-employee directors during the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to an aggregate of 4,833 shares issued during the six months ended August 31, 2019. In connection with these non-employee director stock issuances, the Company recognized $0 and $45,652 of stock-based compensation expense during the six months ended August 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

During the three monthsthree- and six-month periods ended August 31, 20192020, the Company entered intorecognized $143,719 and $287,437, respectively, of stock-based compensation expense related to restricted stock unit grants. The restricted stock unit grants generally vest in equal annual or quarterly installments over a lease amendmentperiod of five to extendsix years. During the termsix-month periods ended August 31, 2020 and 2019, 47,929 and 28,502 restricted stock units vested and were issued as common stock, respectively. Total unrecognized compensation expense of a lease for a Company-owned location. This lease amendment resulted innon-vested, non-forfeited restricted stock units granted as of August 31, 2020 was $1,850,943, which is expected to be recognized over the weighted-average period of 4.15 years.

The Company recognizing a present valuehas no outstanding stock options as of future lease liability of $476,611 based upon a total lease liability of $532,811.August 31, 2020.

 

 

NOTE 11 – EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per share is calculated using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur from common shares issuable through the settlement of restricted stock units. Restricted stock units become dilutive within the period granted and remain dilutive until the units vest and are issued as common stock.

The weighted-average number of shares outstanding used in the computation of diluted earnings per share does not include outstanding common shares issuable if their effect would be anti-dilutive. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, 960,677 shares of common stock warrants and 222,634 shares of issuable common stock were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because their effect would have been anti-dilutive.

NOTE 12 –REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS– LEASING ARRANGEMENTS

 

Effective March 1, 2018, theThe Company adopted ASC 606. ASC 606 provides that revenues areconducts its retail operations in facilities leased under non-cancelable operating leases of up to be recognized when control of promised goods or services is transferred to a customer in an amount that reflects the consideration expected to be receivedten years. Certain leases contain renewal options for those goods or services. This new standard does not impact the Company's recognition of revenue from sales of confectionary items to the Company’s franchiseesbetween five and others, or in its Company-owned stores as those sales are recognizedten additional years at the timeincreased monthly rentals. Some of the underlying sale and are presented net of sales taxes and discounts. The standard also does not change the recognition of royalties and marketing fees from franchised or licensed locations, which areleases provide for contingent rentals based on a percentsales in excess of sales and recognized at the time the sales occur. predetermined base levels. 

The standard does change the timing inCompany acts as primary lessee of some franchised store premises, which the Company recognizes initial fees fromthen subleases to franchisees, and licensees for new franchisebut the majority of existing locations and renewalsare leased by the franchisee directly. Currently, there are not indications that affect the termCompany will be required to make any payments on behalf of the franchise agreement.franchisees.

 

Initial Franchise Fees, License Fees, Transfer Fees and Renewal Fees

The Company's policy for recognizing initial franchise and renewal fees through February 28, 2018 was to recognize initial franchise fees upon new store openings and renewals that impact the term of the franchise agreement upon renewal. In accordance with the new guidance, the initial franchise services are not distinct from the continuing rights or services offered during the term of the franchise agreement, and will be treated as a single performance obligation. Beginning March 1, 2018, initial franchise fees are being recognized as the Company satisfies the performance obligation over the term of the franchise agreement, which is generally 10-15 years.

At August 31, 2019, annual revenue expected to be recognized in the future, related to performance obligations that are not yet fully satisfied, are estimated to be the following:

FY 20

 $117,608 

FY 21

  188,664 

FY 22

  175,465 

FY 23

  162,496 

FY 24

  131,911 

Thereafter

  439,785 

Total

 $1,215,929 

Gift Cards

The Company’s franchisees sell gift cards, which do not have expiration dates or non-usage fees. The proceeds from the sale of gift cards by the franchisees are accumulated by the Company and paid out to the franchisees upon customer redemption. The Company has historically accumulated gift card liabilities and has not recognized breakage associated with the gift card liability. The adoption of ASC 606 requires the use of the “proportionate” method for recognizing breakage, whichsome instances, the Company has not historically utilized. Upon adoption of ASC 606leased space for its Company-owned locations that are now occupied by franchisees. When the Company began recognizing breakage from gift cards whenCompany-owned location was sold or transferred, the gift cardstore was subleased to the franchisee who is redeemed byresponsible for the customer ormonthly rent and other obligations under the Company determines the likelihood of the gift card being redeemed by the customer is remote (“gift card breakage”). The determination of the gift card breakage rate is based upon Company-specific historical redemption patterns.lease.

 

14
16

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The Company also leases trucking equipment and warehouse space in support of its manufacturing operations. Expense associated with trucking and warehouse leases is included in cost of sales on the consolidated statements of operations.

ASU 2016-02 allows, as a practical expedient, the retention of the classification of existing leases as operating or financing. All of the Company’s leases are classified as operating leases and that classification has been retained upon adoption. The Company does not believe the utilization of this practical expedient has a material impact on lease classifications.

The Company accounts for payments related to lease liabilities on a straight-line basis over the lease term. During the six months ended August 31, 2020 and 2019, lease expense recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income was $440,121 and $478,707, respectively.

The amount of the Right of Use Asset and Lease Liability recorded upon the adoption of ASU 2016-02 was $3.3 million. The lease liability reflects the present value of the Company’s estimated future minimum lease payments over the life of its leases. This includes known escalations and renewal option periods reasonably assured of being exercised. Typically, renewal options are considered reasonably assured of being exercised if the sales performance of the location remains strong. Therefore, the Right of Use Asset and Lease Liability include an assumption on renewal options that have not yet been exercised by the Company, and are not currently a future obligation. The Company has separated non-lease components from lease components in the recognition of the Asset and Liability except in instances where such costs were not practical to separate. To the extent that occupancy costs, such as site maintenance, are included in the Asset and Liability, the impact is immaterial. For franchised locations, the related occupancy costs including property taxes, insurance and site maintenance are generally required to be paid by the franchisees as part of the franchise arrangement. In addition, the Company is the lessee under non-store related leases such as storage facilities and trucking equipment. For leases where the implicit rate is not readily determinable, the Company uses an incremental borrowing rate to calculate the lease liability that represents an estimate of the interest rate the Company would incur to borrow on a collateralized basis over the term of a lease. The weighted average discount rate used for operating leases was 3.4% as of August 31, 2020. The total estimated future minimum lease payments is $2.6 million.

As of August 31, 2020, maturities of lease liabilities for the Company’s operating leases were as follows:

FY 21

 $411,447 

FY 22

  694,755 

FY 23

  437,445 

FY 24

  315,962 

FY 25

  164,223 

Thereafter

  552,818 

Total

 $2,576,650 
     

Less: imputed interest

  (241,808)

Present value of lease liabilities:

 $2,334,842 
     

Weighted average lease term (in years)

 

6.7

 

During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company entered into a lease amendment to extend the term of a lease for a Company-owned location. This lease amendment resulted in the Company recognizing a present value of future lease liability of $476,611 based upon a total lease liability of $532,811.

 

NOTE 13 – DISAGGREGATION OF REVENUECOMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Purchase contracts

 

The following table presents disaggregated revenue by methodCompany frequently enters into purchase contracts of recognitionbetween six to eighteen months for chocolate and segment:certain nuts. These contracts permit the Company to purchase the specified commodity at a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate, the Company may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but it may be required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and it is unable to renegotiate the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2020, the Company was contracted for approximately $100,000 of raw materials under such agreements. The Company has designated these contracts as normal under the normal purchase and sale exception under the accounting standards for derivatives. These contracts are not entered into for speculative purposes.

Three Months Ended August 31, 2019

Revenues recognized over time under ASC 606:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 
                     

Franchise fees

 $65,327  $-  $-  $16,602  $81,929 

Revenues recognized at a point in time:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 

Factory sales

  -   4,482,373   -   -   4,482,373 

Retail sales

  -   -   265,662   636,005   901,667 

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,449,157   -   -   470,144   1,919,301 

Total

 $1,514,484  $4,482,373  $265,662  $1,122,751  $7,385,270 

Three Months Ended August 31, 2018

Revenues recognized over time under ASC 606:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 
                     

Franchise fees

 $36,005  $-  $-  $71,533  $107,538 

Revenues recognized at a point in time:

         
  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 

Factory sales

  -   4,782,070   -   -   4,782,070 

Retail sales

  -   -   298,359   655,890   954,249 

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,432,749   -   -   523,482   1,956,231 

Total

 $1,468,754  $4,782,070  $298,359  $1,250,905  $7,800,088 

 

15
17

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019

Revenues recognized over time under ASC 606:

  
  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 
                     

Franchise fees

 $145,346  $-  $-  $42,863  $188,209 

Revenues recognized at a point in time:

         
  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 

Factory sales

  -   10,088,393   -   -   10,088,393 

Retail sales

  -   -   498,081   1,258,177   1,756,258 

Royalty and marketing fees

  2,796,893   -   -   981,516   3,778,409 

Total

 $2,942,239  $10,088,393  $498,081  $2,282,556  $15,811,269 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2018

Revenues recognized over time under ASC 606:

  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 
                     

Franchise fees

 $110,521  $-  $-  $90,152  $200,673 

Revenues recognized at a point in time:

         
  

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Total

 

Factory sales

  -   10,341,296   -   -   10,341,296 

Retail sales

  -   -   659,794   1,317,278   1,977,072 

Royalty and marketing fees

  2,670,403   -   -   976,729   3,647,132 

Total

 $2,780,924  $10,341,296  $659,794  $2,384,159  $16,166,173 

16

Table of Contents

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

NOTE 14 – FTD LOSS CONTINGENCY

 

In June 2019, the Company’s largest customer at the time, FTD Companies, Inc. and its domestic subsidiaries (“FTD”), filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. As a part of such bankruptcy proceedings, divisions of FTD’s business and certain related assets, including the divisions that the Company has historically sold product to, were sold through an auction to multiple buyers.

 

The Company has historically conducted business with FTD under a Gourmet Foods Supplier Agreement (the “Supplier“FTD Supplier Agreement”), that among other provisions, provided assurance that custom inventory purchased by the Company and developed specifically for FTD would be purchased by FTD upon termination of the FTD Supplier Agreement. OnIn September 23, 2019, the Company received notice that the bankruptcy court had approved FTD to reject and not enforce the FTD Supplier Agreement as part of the proceedings.

 

As a result of FTD’s bankruptcy, the sale of certain assets, and the court’s approval to reject and not enforce the terms of the FTD Supplier Agreement, the Company is uncertain if accounts receivable and inventory balances associated with FTD at August 31, 20192020 will be realized at their full value, or if any revenue will be received from FTD in the future. A potential loss associated with these balances is not probable and/or is not able to be estimated as of the date of these consolidated financial statements.

 

As of August 31, 2019, balances associated with2020, the Company had recorded inventory and receivables related to FTD consistof approximately $226,000 and $80,000, respectively. The Company had also established reserves of approximately $146,000 for expected losses on FTD inventory and receivables upon the conclusion of the following:bankruptcy proceedings.

NOTE 15 – INCOME TAXES

 

  

August 31, 2019

 

Ingredients and supplies

 $382,656 

Finished candy

  76,688 

Accounts receivable

  73,232 
     

Total potential loss, contingent upon the bankruptcy proceedings

 $532,576 

FTD represented approximately $1.5 million, or 9.3%Under the recently enacted CARES Act a net operating loss (“NOL”) arising during the Company’s fiscal year 2021 can be carried back for five years to offset the Company’s taxable income for fiscal years 2016-2020. This five-year period spans Federal effective tax rates for the Company ranging from 21% to 34%, the result of the Company’s revenuesTax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted during the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $1.4 million, or 8.8%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018. FTD represented approximately $3.1 million or 9% of our total revenues during thefiscal year ended February 28, 2019 compared2018.

The Company’s deferred tax assets are valued at the current federally enacted rate of 21%. If the Company were to revenuecontinue to realize NOLs in future periods, or incur a NOL for all of approximately $5.1 million or 13%fiscal year 2021 the loss carryback provisions of our total revenuesthe CARES Act may enable the Company to offset taxable income from prior years when federally enacted tax rates were higher than 21%. Under such a scenario, the Company would incur a gain associated with the revaluation of the Company’s deferred tax assets to the extent that prior taxable income during periods of higher enacted federal tax rates could be offset by current NOLs.

As of August 31, 2020, the Company is in the process of analyzing the different aspects of the CARES Act to quantify the impact of these provisions on the Company’s income taxes.

NOTE 16 – OPERATING SEGMENTS

The Company classifies its business interests into five reportable segments: Franchising, Manufacturing, Retail Stores, U-Swirl operations and Other. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in Note 1 to these consolidated financial statements and Note 1 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2018.  Our future results may be adversely impacted by decreases29, 2020. The Company evaluates performance and allocates resources based on operating contribution, which excludes unallocatedcorporate general and administrative costs and income tax expense or benefit. The Company’s reportable segments are strategic businesses that utilize common merchandising, distribution and marketing functions, as well as common information systems and corporate administration. All inter-segment sales prices are market based. Each segment is managed separately because of the differences in required infrastructure and the purchases of this customer or the loss of this customer entirely.difference in products and services:

 

17
18

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO INTERIM (UNAUDITED) CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Three Months Ended August 31, 2020

 

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

�� 

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total revenues

 $1,040,863  $3,768,416  $193,702  $594,812  $-  $5,597,793 

Intersegment revenues

  (727)  (269,664)  -   -   -   (270,391)

Revenue from external customers

  1,040,136   3,498,752   193,702   594,812   -   5,327,402 

Segment profit (loss)

  366,535   489,668   21,924   11,903   (789,297)  100,733 

Total assets

  1,387,005   12,241,965   618,323   5,526,772   9,413,374   29,187,439 

Capital expenditures

  150   11,343   72   -   16,799   28,364 

Total depreciation & amortization

 $10,095  $162,523  $1,391  $140,823  $20,021  $334,853 

Three Months Ended August 31, 2019

 

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total revenues

 $1,515,805  $4,714,682  $265,662  $1,122,751  $-  $7,618,900 

Intersegment revenues

  (1,321)  (232,309)  -   -   -   (233,630)

Revenue from external customers

  1,514,484   4,482,373   265,662   1,122,751   -   7,385,270 

Segment profit (loss)

  828,978   955,360   7,979   296,880   (841,434)  1,247,763 

Total assets

  1,445,041   11,838,237   1,005,356   5,620,012   9,377,697   29,286,343 

Capital expenditures

  (2,040)  162,127   23,106   1,673   12,570   197,436 

Total depreciation & amortization

 $10,353  $151,848  $2,533  $185,208  $22,891  $372,833 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2020

 

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total revenues

 $1,295,339  $6,061,508  $253,683  $848,859  $-  $8,459,389 

Intersegment revenues

  (1,409)  (428,141)  -   -   -   (429,550)

Revenue from external customers

  1,293,930   5,633,367   253,683   848,859   -   8,029,839 

Segment profit (loss)

  (84,784)  (293,801)  (455,902)  (445,815)  (3,465,690)  (4,745,992)

Total assets

  1,387,005   12,241,965   618,323   5,526,772   9,413,374   29,187,439 

Capital expenditures

  150   25,197   72   1,712   23,722   50,853 

Total depreciation & amortization

 $20,233  $324,353  $4,794  $287,772  $40,815  $677,967 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019

 

Franchising

  

Manufacturing

  

Retail

  

U-Swirl

  

Other

  

Total

 

Total revenues

 $2,944,846  $10,581,154  $498,081  $2,282,556  $-  $16,306,637 

Intersegment revenues

  (2,607)  (492,761)  -   -   -   (495,368)

Revenue from external customers

  2,942,239   10,088,393   498,081   2,282,556   -   15,811,269 

Segment profit (loss)

  1,446,888   2,124,047   (7,033)  576,043   (1,948,398)  2,191,547 

Total assets

  1,445,041   11,838,237   1,005,356   5,620,012   9,377,697   29,286,343 

Capital expenditures

  8,500   385,679   32,624   1,673   52,508   480,984 

Total depreciation & amortization

 $21,183  $301,980  $5,143  $375,977  $46,203  $750,486 

19

Item 2.

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

 

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

 

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (“Quarterly Report”) includes statements of our expectations, intentions, plans and beliefs that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and are intended to come within the safe harbor protection provided by those sections. These forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties. The nature of our operations and the environment in which we operate subject us to changing economic, competitive, regulatory and technological conditions, risks and uncertainties. The statements, other than statements of historical fact, included in this Quarterly ReportReport are forward-looking statements. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this document may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "will," "intend," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "should," "plan," "estimate," "potential," or similar expressions. Factors which could cause results to differ include, but are not limited to: the outcomeimpact of the novel coronavirus ("COVID-19") on our business, including, among other things, online sales, factory sales, retail sales and royalty and marketing fees, our liquidity, our ongoing evaluationcost cutting and capital preservation measures,achievement of the anticipated potential benefits of the strategic alternatives, including, but not limitedalliance with Edible (as defined herein), our ability to provide products to Edible under the time table for identifying potential transactions or transaction candidates and whether any transaction will be completed, relationships and changes in our customers,strategic alliance, the ability to increase our online sales through the agreements with Edible, changes in the confectionery business environment, seasonality, consumer interest in our products, general economic conditions, the success of our frozen yogurt business, receptiveness of our products internationally, consumer and retail trends, costs and availability of raw materials, competition, the success of our co-branding strategy, the success of international expansion efforts and the effect of government regulations. Government regulations which we and our franchisees and licensees either are, or may be, subject to and which could cause results to differ from forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: local, state and federal laws regarding health, sanitation, safety, building and fire codes, franchising, licensing, employment, manufacturing, packaging and distribution of food products and motor carriers. For a detailed discussion of the risks and uncertainties that may cause our actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements contained herein, please see the section entitled “Risk Factors” contained in Item 1A. of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 289, 20120920. Additional factors that might cause such differences include, but are not limited to: the length and severity of the current COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on among other things, factory sales, retail sales, royalty and marketing fees and operations, the effect of any governmental action or mandated employer-paid benefits in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, our ability to manage costs and reduce expenditures in the current economic environment and the availability of additional financing if and when required. These forward-looking statements apply only as of the date of this Quarterly Report.Report. As such they should not be unduly relied upon for more current circumstances. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that might reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this Quarterly ReportReport or those that might reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 

Unless otherwise specified, the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our” refers to Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries(including its operating subsidiary with the same name, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Colorado corporation (“RMCF”)).

 

Overview

 

We are an international franchisor, confectionery manufacturer and retail operator. Founded in 1981, we are headquartered in Durango, Colorado and manufacture an extensive line of premium chocolate candies and other confectionery products. Our subsidiary, U-Swirl International, Inc. (“U-Swirl”), franchises and operates soft-serve frozen yogurt cafés. Our revenues and profitability are derived principally from our franchised/license system of retail stores that feature chocolate, frozen yogurt and other confectionary products. We also sell our candy outside of our system of retail stores and license the use of our brand with certain consumer products. As of August 31, 2019,2020, there were two Company-owned, 9598 licensee-owned and 242220 franchised Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory stores operating in 37 states, Canada, South Korea, Panama, and the Philippines. As of August 31, 2019,2020, U-Swirl operated fourthree Company-owned cafés and 9278 franchised cafés located in 24 states and Qatar. U-Swirl operates self-serve frozen yogurt cafés under the names “U-Swirl,” “Yogurtini,” “CherryBerry,” “Yogli Mogli Frozen Yogurt,” “Fuzzy Peach Frozen Yogurt,” “Let’s Yo!” and “Aspen Leaf Yogurt”.

 

Strategic Alliance with Edible Arrangements

In December 2019, the Company entered into a strategic alliance (the “Strategic Alliance”) with Edible Arrangements, LLC and its affiliates (collectively, “Edible”), pursuant to which, among other things, the Company will become the exclusive provider of certain branded chocolate products to Edible, its affiliates and its franchisees. In connection with the Strategic Alliance, the Company entered into a strategic alliance agreement, an exclusive supplier operating agreement and a warrant agreement with Edible. In addition, in March 2020, the Company entered into an ecommerce licensing agreement with Edible, whereby Edible sells a wide variety of chocolates, candies and other confectionery products produced by the Company or its franchisees through Edible’s websites.

20

Bankruptcy of FTD Companies

 

In June 2019, the Company’s largest customer at the time, FTD Companies, Inc. and its domestic subsidiaries (“FTD”), filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. As a part of such bankruptcy proceedings, divisions of FTD’s business and certain related assets, including the divisions that the Company has historically sold product to, were sold through the auction to multiple buyers. The Company is uncertain if accounts receivable and inventory balances associated with FTD at August 31, 20192020 will be realized at their full value, or if any revenue will be received from FTD in the future. See Note 14 to the consolidated financial statements contained herein for additional information about the FTD bankruptcy.

 

18

Table

COVID-19

As discussed in more detail throughout this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three and six months ended August 31, 2020 (this “Quarterly Report”), we have experienced significant business disruptions resulting from efforts to contain the rapid spread of Contents

the novel coronavirus ("COVID-19"), including the vast mandated self-quarantines of customers and closures of non-essential business throughout the United States and internationally. Nearly all of the Company-owned and franchise stores were directly and negatively impacted by public health measures taken in response to COVID-19, with nearly all locations experiencing reduced operations as a result of, among other things, modified business hours and store and mall closures. As a result, franchisees and licensees are not ordering products for their stores in line with historical amounts. This trend has negatively impacted, and is expected to continue to negatively impact, among other things, factory sales, retail sales and royalty and marketing fees. Beginning in May 2020 and continuing through August 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, began to re-open. As of August 31, 2020 approximately 27 stores have not re-opened and the future of these locations is uncertain.  This is a closure rate significantly higher than historical levels. By August 31, 2020, certain stores have met or exceeded pre-COVID-19 levels, however, many retail environments have continued to be adversely impacted by changes to consumer behavior as a result of COVID-19. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre-COVID-19 levels.

In addition, as previously announced on May 11, 2020, the Board of Directors decided to suspend the Company’s first quarter cash dividend payment to preserve cash and provide additional flexibility in the current environment impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the Board of Directors has suspended future quarterly dividends until the significant uncertainty of the current public health crisis and economic climate has passed, and the Board of Directors determines that resumption of dividend payments is in the best interest of us and our stockholders.

During this challenging time, the Company’s foremost priority is the safety and well-being of our employees, customers, franchisees and communities. In addition to the already stringent practices for the quality and safety of the Company’s confections, the Company is diligently following health and safety guidance issued by the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and state and local governmental agencies. COVID-19 has had an unprecedented impact on the retail industry as containment measures continue to impact the Company’s operations and the retail industry. Numerous countries, states and local governments have effected ordinances to protect the public through social distancing, which has caused, and we expect will continue to cause, a significant decrease in, among other things, retail traffic and as a result, factory sales, retail sales and royalty and marketing fees. With that said, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory products remain available for sale online. The Company’s current focus is on supporting its franchisees and licensees during this challenging time and driving growth in online sales, especially in light of the ecommerce licensing agreement with Edible, as discussed above, while also sensibly managing costs. The number of Company-owned and franchise stores remaining open may change frequently and significantly due to the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 outbreak.

In these challenging and unprecedented times, management is taking all necessary and appropriate action to maximize liquidity as the Company navigates the current landscape. These actions include significantly reducing operating expenses and production volume to reflect reduced sales volumes as well as the elimination of all non-essential spending and capital expenditures. Further, in an abundance of caution and to maintain ample financial flexibility, the Company drew down the full amount under our line of credit and the Company received loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”). The receipt of funds under the PPP has allowed the Company to temporarily avoid workforce reduction measures amidst a steep decline in revenue and production volume. While the Company believes it has sufficient liquidity with its current cash position, the Company will continue to monitor and evaluate all financing alternatives as necessary as these unprecedented events evolve. For more information, please see Item 1A “Risk Factors—The Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic Has, and May Continue to, Materially and Adversely Affect our Sales, Earnings, Financial Condition and Liquidity” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on May 29, 2020 with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Results of Operations

 

Three Months Ended August 31, 20120920 Compared to the Three Months Ended August 31, 20189

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 15.4%decreased 93.3% from $0.13$0.15 per share in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to $0.15$0.01 per share in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Revenues decreased (5.3)%27.9% from $7.8 million in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $7.4 million in the three months ended August 31, 2019. Operating income increased 19.7% from $1.02019 to $5.3 million in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to2020. Operating income decreased 90.4% from $1.2 million in the three months ended August 31, 2019. Net income increased 22.3% from $751,0002019 to $119,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to2020. Net income decreased 91.7% from $918,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019. The increase in operating income was due primarily2019 to lower operating expenses$76,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared2020. The decrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to the three months ended August 31, 2018. continued impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

21

 

Revenues

 

Three Months Ended

          

Three Months Ended

         
 

August 31,

  $  

%

  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

(

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

 

Three Months Ended

          

Three Months Ended

         
 

August 31,

  $  

%

  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

(

 

Gross Margin

 

 

Three Months Ended

          

Three Months Ended

         
 

August 31,

  $  

%

  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

(

 

 

Three Months Ended

          

Three Months Ended

         
 

August 31,

  

%

  

%

  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

 

Three Months Ended

          

Three Months Ended

         
 

August 31,

  $  

%

  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

(

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

 

Six Months Ended

          

Six Months Ended

         
 

August 31,

  $  

%

  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

(

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

 

Six Months Ended

          

Six Months Ended

         
 

August 31,

  $  

%

  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

(

 

Gross Margin

 

 

Six Months Ended

          

Six Months Ended

         
 

August 31,

  $  

%

  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                                

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)% $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)% $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

 

Six Months Ended

          

Six Months Ended

         
 

August 31,

  

%

  

%

  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                                

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

Six Months Ended

          

Six Months Ended

         
 

August 31,

  $  

%

  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

(

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                                

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                                

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                                

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

19
22

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

20
23

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

21

Table of Contents

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

24

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

25

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

22

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

23
26

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

27

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

24

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

28

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

25

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

29

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

26

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

27
30

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

28
31

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)% $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%                                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

20
23

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

21

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

24

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)% $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)% $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)% $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%                                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)% $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)% $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)% $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%                                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)% $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)% $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)% $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%                                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)% $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)% $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%                                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)% $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%                                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

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101.INS

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____________________________

 

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Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)% $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)% $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)% $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%                                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)% $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)% $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)% $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%                                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)% $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)% $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)% $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%                                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)% $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)% $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

                                  

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)% $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)% $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32
s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $4,482.4  $4,782.1  $(299.7)  (6.3)% $3,498.8  $4,482.4  $(983.6)  (21.9)%

Retail sales

  901.7   954.3   (52.6)  (5.5)%  495.4   901.7   (406.3)  (45.1)%

Franchise fees

  81.9   107.5   (25.6)  (23.8)%  73.6   81.9   (8.3)  (10.1)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,919.3   1,956.2   (36.9)  (1.9)%  1,259.6   1,919.3   (659.7)  (34.4)%

Total

 $7,385.3  $7,800.1  $(414.8)  (5.3)% $5,327.4  $7,385.3  $(2,057.9)  (27.9)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 32.4%34.5% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores, partially offset by a $416,000 increase in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations and a 2.7%stores. The decrease in purchases bysales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. The decreaseincrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenuesales associated with products no longer offered for sale. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, decreased during the three months ended August 31, 2019,our strategic alliance with revenue from such customer decreasing to approximately $103,000, or 1.4%, of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2019, compared to $144,000, or 1.8% of the Company’s revenues during the three months ended August 31, 2018. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels.Edible.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.0%27.7% in the three months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019 as result of store closures, reduced operations and reduced demand in stores as a result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewerthe result of limited operations and limited foot traffic during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The limited operations at our Company-owned units in operation becausestores was the result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned locationsCOVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year.three months ended August 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all Company-owned stores had resumed limited operations following COVID-19 related closure. Same store sales at all Company-owned stores and cafés decreased 1.7%39% in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The decrease in royalties and marketing fees from the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the three months ended August 31, 2020 and a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. Nearly all of our franchised locations experienced reduced operations during the three months ended August 31, 2020. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased 4.8% from 291272 in the three months ended August 31, 20182019 to 272259 during the three months ended August 31, 2019.2020. This decrease is the result of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise stores and cafés in operation increased 0.1%decreased 29% during the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $3,435.3  $3,575.4  $(140.1)  (3.9)%

Cost of sales - retail

  303.1   308.5   (5.4)  (1.8)%

Franchise costs

  441.6   582.8   (141.2)  (24.2)%

Sales and marketing

  434.8   565.2   (130.4)  (23.1)%

General and administrative

  830.5   813.4   17.1   2.1%

Retail operating

  469.3   498.9   (29.6)  (5.9)%

Total

 $5,914.6  $6,344.2  $(429.6)  (6.8)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $2,907.8  $3,435.3  $(527.5)  (15.4)%

Cost of sales - retail

  145.8   303.1   (157.3)  (51.9)%

Franchise costs

  451.0   441.6   9.4   2.1%

Sales and marketing

  408.9   434.8   (25.9)  (6.0)%

General and administrative

  788.5   830.5   (42.0)  (5.1)%

Retail operating

  329.4   469.3   (139.9)  (29.8)%

Total

 $5,031.4  $5,914.6  $(883.2)  (14.9)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total

 $1,645.7  $1,852.5  $(206.8)  (11.2)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total

 $940.6  $1,645.7  $(705.1)  (42.8)%

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  23.4%  25.2%  (1.9)%  (7.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total

  30.6%  32.3%  (1.7)%  (5.4)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

(Percent)

                

Factory gross margin

  16.9%  23.4%  (6.5)%  (27.7)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total

  23.5%  30.6%  (7.0)%  (23.0)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

 

  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $1,047.1  $1,206.7  $(159.6)  (13.2)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  147.4   138.2   9.2   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  1,194.5   1,344.9   (150.4)  (11.2)%

Retail gross margin

  598.6   645.8   (47.2)  (7.3)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,793.1  $1,990.7  $(197.6)  (9.9)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.6%  28.1%  (1.5)%  (5.2)%

Retail gross margin

  66.4%  67.7%  (1.3)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  33.3%  34.7%  (1.4)%  (4.0)%
  

Three Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

   $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $591.0  $1,047.1  $(456.1)  (43.6)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  158.2   147.4   10.8   7.3%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  749.2   1,194.5   (445.3)  (37.3)%

Retail gross margin

  349.6   598.6   (249.0)  (41.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $1,098.8  $1,793.1  $(694.3)  (38.7)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  21.4%  26.6%  (5.2)%  (19.6)%

Retail gross margin

  70.6%  66.4%  4.2%  6.3%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  27.5%  33.3%  (5.8)%  (17.4)%

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory margins decreased 190650 basis points in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018 because of a charge associated with costs of excess capacity. Excess capacity was the result of a 14.8% decrease2019 due primarily to lower production volume in production for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018. The2019. During the three months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 11.0% in response to a 21.9% decrease in Company-owned store margin isfactory sales, primarily due primarily to a change in units in operationthe impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail gross margins increased from 66.4% during the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 70.6% during the prior year.three months ended August 31, 2020.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decreaseincrease in franchise costs in the three months ended August 31, 2019 versus the three months ended August 31, 2018 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expense in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019 is due primarily to an increase in professional fees, mostly offset by lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 33.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 from 22.1% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. This increase as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower royalty revenues.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation and lower revenue associated with sales to customers outside of our network of franchised and licensed RMCF locations.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increasedecrease in general and administrative costs for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 is primarily due to higherlower professional fees, associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explorelower bad debt expense, and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the three months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $92,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.lower equity compensation expense. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 14.8% in the three months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 11.2% in the three months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 10.4% in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the three months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operationreduced operations as a result of the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.COVID-19 pandemic. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 52.3% in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.0% in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 66.5% in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $177,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 21.6% from $225,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 24.0% from $297,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 87 to the consolidated financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.3% from $138,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2018 to $147,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $158,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures

There was $119,000 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with company-owned store closures incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurred during the three months ended August 31, 2018 were the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

 

Other Income (Expense)

 

Net interest incomeexpense was $3,000$19,000 in the three months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to net interest expenseincome of $15,000$3,000 incurred in the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances forchange was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2019 compared2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the three months ended AugustMay 31, 2018.2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of credit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

 

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the three months ended August 31, 20192020 was 26.4%24.4%, compared to 26.8%26.4% for the three months ended August 31, 2018.2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Six Months Ended August 31, 2019 2020Compared to the Six Months Ended August 31, 20182019

 

Results Summary

 

Basic earnings per share increased 22.7% todecreased from $0.27 per share for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $0.22a net loss of $(0.59) per share for the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Revenues decreased (2.2)% to49.2% from $15.8 million for the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to $16.2$8.0 million infor the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. Operating income increased 20.2%decreased from $1.8$2.2 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $2.2an operating loss of $(4.7) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. Net income increased 22.7%decreased from $1.3$1.6 million infor the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to $1.6a net loss of $(3.6) million infor the six months ended August 31, 2019.2020. The increasedecrease in revenue, operating income and net income was due primarily to lower operating expenses in the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared toimpacts from the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 pandemic, including its impact on our operation and the operations of our franchised, licensed and Company-owned locations.

 

Revenues

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $10,088.4  $10,341.3  $(252.9)  (2.4)%

Retail sales

  1,756.3   1,977.1   (220.8)  (11.2)%

Franchise fees

  188.2   200.7   (12.5)  (6.2)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  3,778.4   3,647.1   131.3   3.6%

Total

 $15,811.3  $16,166.2  $(354.9)  (2.2)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 

Factory sales

 $5,633.4  $10,088.4  $(4,455.0)  (44.2)%

Retail sales

  683.0   1,756.3   (1,073.3)  (61.1)%

Franchise fees

  128.6   188.2   (59.6)  (31.7)%

Royalty and marketing fees

  1,584.8   3,778.4   (2,193.6)  (58.1)%

Total

 $8,029.8  $15,811.3  $(7,781.5)  (49.2)%

 

Factory Sales

 

The decrease in factory sales for the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to a 10.2%53.7% decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores and a 5.9% decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensedfranchised retail locations. The decrease in shipments of product to customers outside our network of franchise and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of product rationalization and a decline in revenue associated with products no longer offered for sale.stores. Purchases by the Company’s largest customer, FTD, were approximately $1.5 million,$199,000, or 9.3%2.5%, of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared to $1.4$1.5 million, or 8.8%9.3% of the Company’s revenues during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. As discussed above, FTD declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in June 2019. Until the bankruptcy proceedings are complete, it is unclear whether the Company will realize any revenue from FTD in the future, and if so, whether such revenues will return to historic levels. The decrease in sales of product to our network of franchised and licensed retail stores was primarily the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the six months ended August 31, 2020, which significantly reduced traffic in our stores. These decreases were partially offset by increases in factory sales associated with our strategic alliance with Edible and by an increase in revenue from online sales of our products directly to consumers. Beginning in May 2020, most stores previously closed for much of March 2020 and April 2020, in response to COVID-19, began to re-open. Most stores re-opened subject to various local health restrictions and with reduced operations. It is unclear when or if store operations will return to pre COVID-19 levels.

 

Same store pounds purchased by domestic Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory franchise and license locations decreased 5.3%50.5% in the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, compared with the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019.

 

Retail Sales

 

The decrease in retail sales for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was primarily due to fewer Company-owned units in operation because of the closure of certain underperformingall of our Company-owned locationsstores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in place during the prior fiscal year. Same store sales atthree months ended May 31, 2020. As of August 31, 2020, all of our Company-owned stores and cafés increased 0.2% inhad resumed limited operations following the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.COVID-19 related closures.

 

Royalties, Marketing Fees and Franchise Fees

 

The increasedecrease in royalties and marketing fees from the six months ended August 31, 20182019 to the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was primarily due to an increasethe COVID-19 pandemic and the associated public health measures in royalty revenue associated with the Company’s purchase-based royalty structure, partially offset by a 6.5% decrease in domestic franchise units in operation. The average number of total domestic franchise stores in operation decreased from 293 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 274place during the six months ended August 31, 2019. This decrease is the result2020. Nearly all of domestic store closures exceeding domestic store openings. Same store sales at total franchise storesour franchised locations experienced reduced operations and cafés in operation increased 0.5%periods of full closure during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020.

 

The decrease in franchise fee revenue for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was the result of a decrease in revenue resulting from fewer franchise stores in operation and the associated recognition of revenue over the term of the franchise agreement.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Cost of Sales

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $7,761.8  $7,846.1  $(84.3)  (1.1)%

Cost of sales - retail

  591.3   703.0   (111.7)  (15.9)%

Franchise costs

  924.7   1,076.0   (151.3)  (14.1)%

Sales and marketing

  991.4   1,153.5   (162.1)  (14.1)%

General and administrative

  1,975.2   1,727.8   247.4   14.3%

Retail operating

  918.2   1,061.3   (143.1)  (13.5)%

Total

 $13,162.6  $13,567.7  $(405.1)  (3.0)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Cost of sales - factory

 $5,698.3  $7,761.8  $(2,063.5)  (26.6)%

Cost of sales - retail

  238.4   591.3   (352.9)  (59.7)%

Franchise costs

  872.3   924.7   (52.4)  (5.7)%

Sales and marketing

  883.0   991.4   (108.4)  (10.9)%

General and administrative

  3,968.0   1,975.2   1,992.8   100.9%

Retail operating

  648.6   918.2   (269.6)  (29.4)%

Total

 $12,308.6  $13,162.6  $(854.0)  (6.5)%

 

Gross Margin

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total

 $3,491.6  $3,769.3  $(277.7)  (7.4)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total

 $379.7  $3,491.6  $(3,111.9)  (89.1)%

 

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  23.1%  24.1%  (1.1)%  (4.4)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total

  29.5%  30.6%  (1.1)%  (3.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  

%

  

%

 
  

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

  -1.2%  23.1%  (24.2)%  (105.0)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total

  6.0%  29.5%  (23.5)%  (79.6)%

 

Adjusted Gross Margin

  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2019

  

2018

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $2,326.6  $2,495.2  $(168.6)  (6.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  293.1   274.7   18.4   6.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  2,619.7   2,769.9   (150.2)  (5.4)%

Retail gross margin

  1,165.0   1,274.1   (109.1)  (8.6)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $3,784.7  $4,044.0  $(259.3)  (6.4)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  26.0%  26.8%  (0.8)%  (3.1)%

Retail gross margin

  66.3%  64.4%  1.9%  2.9%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  32.0%  32.8%  (0.9)%  (2.7)%
  

Six Months Ended

         
  

August 31,

  $  

%

 

($'s in thousands)

 

2020

  

2019

  

Change

  

Change

 
                 

Factory gross margin

 $(64.9) $2,326.6  $(2,391.5)  (102.8)%

Plus: depreciation and amortization

  315.7   293.1   22.6   7.7%

Factory adjusted gross margin

  250.8   2,619.7   (2,368.9)  (90.4)%

Retail gross margin

  444.6   1,165.0   (720.4)  (61.8)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

 $695.4  $3,784.7  $(3,089.3)  (81.6)%
                 

Factory adjusted gross margin

  4.5%  26.0%  (21.5)%  (82.9)%

Retail gross margin

  65.1%  66.3%  (1.2)%  (1.9)%

Total Adjusted Gross Margin

  11.0%  32.0%  (20.9)%  (65.5)%

 

 

Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are non-GAAP measures. Adjusted gross margin is equal to the sum of our factory adjusted gross margin plus our retail gross margin calculated in accordance with GAAP. Factory adjusted gross margin is equal to factory gross margin plus depreciation and amortization expense. We believe adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are helpful in understanding our past performance as a supplement to gross margin, factory gross margin and other performance measures calculated in conformity with GAAP. We believe that adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin are useful to investors because they provide a measure of operating performance and our ability to generate cash that is unaffected by non-cash accounting measures. Additionally, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin rather than gross margin and factory gross margin to make incremental pricing decisions. Adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin have limitations as analytical tools because they exclude the impact of depreciation and amortization expense and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for any measure reported under GAAP. Our use of capital assets makes depreciation and amortization expense a necessary element of our costs and our ability to generate income. Due to these limitations, we use adjusted gross margin and factory adjusted gross margin as measures of performance only in conjunction with GAAP measures of performance such as gross margin and factory gross margin.

 

Cost of Sales and Gross Margin

 

Factory gross margins decreased 110 basis pointsto a negative gross margin of (1.2)% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to a positive gross margin of 23.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2019, due primarily to lower production volume in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 because2019. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, production volume decreased 34.0% in response to a 44.2% decrease in factory sales, primarily due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a charge associated with costs of excess capacity partially offset by certain cost reductions. Excess capacity was the result of a 10.6%the decrease in production forvolume, factory fixed costs, including idle labor, exceeded revenue during the six months ended August 31, 2020. During the six months ended August 31, 2020, the Company incurred approximately $280,000 of production labor costs associated with paying employees who abided by local stay at home orders related to COVID-19 public health measures. This excess capacity cost, in the form of idle labor, was included in cost of sales.

Retail gross margins decreased from 66.3% during the six months ended August 31, 2019 compared to 65.1% during the six months ended August 31, 2018.2020. The increasedecrease in retail gross margins was primarily the result of the temporary closure of underperformingall of our Company-owned locations duringstores for much of the prior fiscal year.three months ended May 31, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the associated impact on perishable inventory.

 

Franchise Costs

 

The decrease in franchise costs in the six months ended August 31, 2019 versus2020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 is due primarily to a decrease in legal and professional expenses.lower travel costs, the result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions. As a percentage of total royalty and marketing fees and franchise fee revenue, franchise costs decreasedincreased to 50.9% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 from 23.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019 from 28.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decreaseincrease as a percentage of royalty, marketing and franchise fees is primarily a result of lower franchise costs.and royalty fees.

 

Sales and Marketing

 

The decrease in sales and marketing costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was primarily due to planned cost reductions as a result of fewer domestic franchise unitslower advertising and promotion costs, partially offset by an increase in operation.online advertising cost.

 

General and Administrative

 

The increase in general and administrative costs for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 2018 is2019 was due primarily due to an increase in bad debt expense, the impairment of certain intangible assets and higher professional fees associated with the Company’s previously announced process to explore and review strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value and position the Company for long-term success. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, the Company incurred approximately $347,000 of costs associated with the review of strategic alternatives, compared with no comparable costs incurred in the six months ended August 31, 2018.fees. As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 49.4% in the six months ended August 31, 2020 compared to 12.5% in the six months ended August 31, 20192019. Bad debt expense was primarily the result of management’s assessment of the likelihood of collecting accounts and notes receivable. As a result of this assessment total allowances for potentially uncollectable accounts and notes receivable increased to $2,012,680 at August 31, 2020, compared to 10.7%$638,907 at February 29, 2020. This cost was a direct result of public health measures in place due to responses to COVID-19 and the six months ended August 31, 2018.financial burden experienced by the majority of our network of franchised and licensed locations. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of costs associated with the impairment of certain intangible assets.

 

Retail Operating Expenses

 

The decrease in retail operating expenses for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 compared to the six months ended August 31, 20182019 was due primarily to changes in units in operation, as athe temporary closure of all of our Company-owned stores for much of the three months ended May 31, 2020. The closure of our Company-owned stores was the result of COVID-19 and the closure of certain underperforming Company-owned units.associated public health measures in place. Retail operating expenses, as a percentage of retail sales, decreasedincreased from 53.7% in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to 52.3% in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to 95.0% in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This decreaseincrease is primarily the result of the change in units in operation from the prior year.lower retail sales.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization, exclusive of depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales, was $362,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020, a decrease of 20.8% from $457,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019, a decrease of 23.5% from $598,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018.2019. This decrease was the result of lower amortization of franchise rights, the result of a decrease in frozen yogurt cafés in operation. See Note 8 to the financial statements for a summary of annual amortization of intangible assets based upon existing intangible assets and current useful lives. Depreciation and amortization included in cost of sales increased 6.7%7.8% from $275,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2018 to $293,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2019.2019 to $316,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2020. This increase was the result of an increase in production assets in service primarily resulting from the replacement of obsolete equipment or equipment at the end of its operating life.

 

Other Income

Costs Associated with Company-Owned Store Closures (Expense)

 

ThereNet interest expense was $177,000$36,400 in costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred during the six months ended August 31, 2018 and no costs associated with Company-owned store closures incurred2020 compared to net interest income of $300 during the six months ended August 31, 2019. The costs incurredThis change was primarily the result of the Company’s increased debt as a result of measures taken during the six months ended August 31, 2018 were2020 to ensure adequate liquidity during the result of charges related to closing certain underperforming Company-owned locations.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest income was approximately equal to interest expense inCOVID-19 pandemic. During the six months ended August 31, 2019, compared to net interest expense2020, the Company borrowed $3.4 million from its line of $33,000 incredit and borrowed $1.5 million of loans under the six months ended August 31, 2018. This decrease in interest expense is due to lower average outstanding promissory note balances for the six months ended August 31, 2019.Paycheck Protection Program.

Income Tax Expense

 

Our effective income tax rate for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 was 25.6%24.3%, compared to 25.9%25.6% for the six months ended August 31, 2018. 2019. The decrease in the effective income tax rate is primarily the result of lower state income taxes.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As discussed below, we have taken several defensive measures to maximize liquidity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the suspension of our cash dividend, reducing expenses, extending payment terms with vendors, reducing production volume and deferring discretionary capital expenditures. Based on these actions, we believe that cash flows from operations and our cash and cash equivalents on hand, will be sufficient to meet our ongoing liquidity needs and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months. Additional future financing may be necessary to fund our operations, and there can be no assurance that, if needed, we will be able to secure additional debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us or at all, especially in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we believe we have adequate sources of liquidity over the long term, the success of our operations, the global economic outlook, and the pace of sustainable growth in our markets, in each case, in light of the market volatility and uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, among other factors, could impact our business and liquidity.

As of August 31, 2019 and February 28, 2019,2020 working capital was $9.5$5.5 million, compared to $8.0 million as of February 29, 2020, a decrease of $2.5 million. The decrease in working capital was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, the result of the Company’s response to COVID-19 and measures taken to ensure sufficient short-term liquidity.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased approximately $400,000$1.1 million to $5.8$5.9 million as of August 31, 20192020 compared to $5.4$4.8 million as of February 28, 2019,29, 2020, primarily as a result of cash flow generated by operating activities exceeding cash flow used by financing activities, including repaymentthe use of debtthe line of credit and paymentreceipt of dividends.loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. Our current ratio was 2.91.5 to 1 at August 31, 20192020 compared to 3.02.4 to 1 at February 28, 2019.29, 2020. We monitor current and anticipated future levels of cash and cash equivalents in relation to anticipated operating, financing and investing requirements.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, we had a net incomeloss of $1,629,697.$(3,591,265). Operating activities providedused cash of $2,902,679,$3,056,480, with the principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash providedused by operating activities being the provision for loss on accounts and notes receivable of $1,468,815, asset impairment and store closure losses of $544,060, depreciation and amortization of $750,486$677,967, an increase in accounts payable of $580,966 and the expense recorded for stockrelated to stock-based compensation of $386,670.$287,437. During the comparable 20182019 period, we had net income of $1,327,759,$1,629,697, and operating activities provided cash of $1,388,429.$2,902,679. The principal adjustment to reconcile the net income to net cash provided by operating activities was depreciation and amortization of $872,454$750,486 and the increase in inventoryexpense recorded for stock compensation of $1,579,686. $386,670.

 

During the six months ended August 31, 2019,2020, investing activities used cash of $406,376,$104,905, primarily due to the purchases of property, equipmentintangible assets of $480,984.$99,047. In comparison, investing activities used cash of $200,537$406,376 during the six months ended August 31, 20182019 primarily due to the purchase of property and equipment of $242,432.$480,984.

 

Financing activities usedprovided cash of $2,127,121$4,263,021 for the six months ended August 31, 20192020 primarily as a as a result of the use of the line of credit and receipt of loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, as described below. In comparison, financing activities used cash of $2,087,641$2,127,121 during the prior year period. The Company’s financing activities consistperiod primarily ofdue to payments on long-term debt and declared dividends.

 

We have

Revolving Credit Line

The Company has a $5.0 million ($5.0 million available as of August 31, 2019)credit line for general corporate and working capital purposes. On March 16, 2020, as a precautionary measure in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the related economic impacts, the Company drew the maximum amount available on the credit line in an amount equal to $3.4 million (the full amount of $5.0 million under the credit collateralizedline, subject to the borrowing base of 50% of eligible accounts receivable plus 50% of eligible inventories). The credit line is secured by substantially all of ourthe Company’s assets, with the exception of ourexcept retail store assets. Interest on borrowings is at LIBOR plus 2.25% (2.4% at August 31, 2020). Additionally, the line of credit is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As ofAt August 31, 2019, we were in compliance2020, the Company was not compliant with all such covenants. Thea covenant of the line of credit was renewed in September 2019that requires the Company to have $1.5 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the trailing twelve months ended August 31, 2020. As a result of COVID-19, the Company failed to meet the amount of EBITDA required by this covenant. On June 26, 2020 and on October 5, 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, NA (“Wells Fargo”) delivered to the Company Reservation of Rights Letters (“Bank Letters”). The Bank Letters reserved all rights available to Wells Fargo under the Credit Agreement dated October 30, 2015 including, but not limited to, the right of Wells Fargo to demand immediate payment of all amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement. The Bank Letters also placed restrictions on the Company’s ability to draw any further funds on the Line of Credit. The Company intends to work with Wells Fargo to amend the associated covenants as the trends related to COVID-19 begin to become clear. There is no assurance that Wells Fargo will agree to any proposed amendment. The credit line is subject to renewal again in September 2021. As2021 and the Company believes it is likely to be renewed on terms similar to the current terms, subject to the Company’s recovery from the impacts of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under this line of credit.COVID-19

 

Our outstanding long-term debt is comprised of a promissory note used to finance business acquisitions of SWRL (unpaid balance as of August 31, 2019 of $480,000). The promissory note allowed us to borrow up to a maximum of $7.0 million to finance business acquisitions and bears interest at a fixed annual rate of 3.75%. The promissory note matures on January 15, 2020. Additionally, the promissory note is subject to various financial ratio and leverage covenants. As of August 31, 2019, we were in compliance with all such covenants.PPP Loan

 

On July 15, 2014, we publicly announcedApril 13, 2020 and April 20, 2020, the Company entered into Loan Agreements and Promissory Notes (collectively, the “SBA Loans”) with 1st SOURCE BANK pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Company received total proceeds of $1.5 million from the SBA Loans. The SBA Loans are scheduled to mature on April 14 and April 20, 2022 and have a plan1.00% interest rate and are subject to repurchase upthe terms and conditions applicable to $3.0 millionloans administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration under the CARES Act. The SBA Loans may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties.

The SBA Loans contain customary events of our common stockdefault relating to, among other things, payment defaults and breaches of representations and warranties. Subject to certain conditions, the SBA Loans may be forgiven in the open marketwhole or in private transactions, whenever deemed appropriatepart by management. On January 13, 2015, we announced a plan to purchase up to an additional $2,058,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan, and on May 21, 2015, we announced a further increaseapplying for forgiveness pursuant to the repurchase planCARES Act and the PPP. The amount of loan proceeds eligible for forgiveness is based on a formula based on a number of factors, including the amount of loan proceeds used by authorizing the purchase of up to an additional $2,090,000 of our common stock under the repurchase plan. We did not repurchase any sharesCompany during the threeeight-week period after the loan origination for certain purposes, including payroll costs, interest on certain mortgage obligations, rent payments on certain leases, and six months ended August 31, 2019. As of August 31, 2019, approximately $638,000 remains available under the repurchase plan for further stock repurchases.

We believe cash flows generated by operating activities and available financing will be sufficient to fund our operations forcertain qualified utility payments, provided that, among other things, at least 75% of the next twelve months. If necessary,loan amount is used for eligible payroll costs, the employer maintaining or rehiring employees and maintaining salaries at a certain level. In accordance with the requirements of the CARES Act and the PPP, the Company has an available bank lineused the proceeds from the SBA Loans primarily for payroll costs. No assurance can be given that the Company will be granted forgiveness of credit to help meet these requirements.the SBA Loans in whole or in part.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of August 31, 2019,2020, except for the purchase obligations as described below, we had no material off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

 

Purchase obligations: As of August 31, 2019,2020, we had purchase obligations of approximately $714,000.$100,000. These purchase obligations primarily consist of contractual obligations for future purchases of commodities for use in our manufacturing.

 

Impact of Inflation

 

Inflationary factors such as increases in the costs of ingredients and labor directly affect our operations. Most of our leases provide for cost-of-living adjustments and require us to pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses, all of which are subject to inflation. Additionally, our future lease costs for new facilities may include potentially escalating costs of real estate and construction. There is no assurance that we will be able to pass on increased costs to our customers.

 

Depreciation expense is based on the historical cost to us of our fixed assets, and is therefore potentially less than it would be if it were based on current replacement cost. While property and equipment acquired in prior years will ultimately have to be replaced at higher prices, it is expected that replacement will be a gradual process over many years.

 

Seasonality

 

We are subject to seasonal fluctuations in sales, which cause fluctuations in quarterly results of operations. Historically, the strongest sales of our products have occurred during key holidays and the summer vacation season. In addition, quarterly results have been, and in the future are likely to be, affected by the timing of new store openings and sales of franchises. Because of the seasonality of our business and the impact of new store openings and sales of franchises, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in other quarters or for a full fiscal year.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We do not engage in commodity futures trading or hedging activitiesItem 3.     Quantitative and do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for trading or other speculative purposes. We also do not engage in transactions in foreign currencies or in interest rate swap transactions that could expose us to market risk. However, we are exposed to some commodity price and interest rate risks.Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We frequently enter into purchase contracts of between six to eighteen months for chocolate and certain nuts. These contracts permit us to purchase the specified commodity atAs a fixed price on an as-needed basis during the term of the contract. Because prices for these products may fluctuate,smaller reporting company, we may benefit if prices rise during the terms of these contracts, but we may beare not required to pay above-market prices if prices fall and we are unable to renegotiateprovide the terms of the contract. As of August 31, 2019, based on future contractual obligations for ingredients, we estimate that a 10.0% change in the prices of contracted ingredients would result in a $71,000 favorable or unfavorable price benefit or cost, respectively, resulting from our contracts.

We have a $5 million bank line of credit that bears interest at a variable rate. As of August 31, 2019, no amount was outstanding under the line of credit. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related toinformation required by this line of credit.Item.

We also entered into a $7.0 million promissory note with interest at a fixed rate of 3.75% annually that was used to finance the previous acquisitions by SWRL. As of August 31, 2019, $480,445 was outstanding under this promissory note. We do not believe that we are exposed to any material interest rate risk related to this promissory note.

Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that material information relating to us is made known to the officers who certify as to our financial reports and to other members of senior management and the Board of Directors. These disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officerprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officer,financial officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based upon this evaluation, our Chief Executiveprincipal executive and Chief Financial Officerfinancial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of August 31, 2019.2020.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 31, 20192020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings

 

The Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time. Management believes that the resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 1A.     Risk Factors

Risk Factors

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part 1, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2019.29, 2020.

Item 2.     Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

None.

Item 3.     Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Mine Safety Disclosures

 

Not Applicable.

Item 5.     Other Information

Other Information

 

None.

 

Item 6.     Exhibits

Exhibits

 

 

3.1

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.2

Certificate of Designations of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share, of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

3.3

Amended and Restated Bylaws of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., a Delaware corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 2, 2015).

 

 

10.1*

Revolving Line of Credit Note, dated September 30, 2019, between Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association.

31.1*

Certification Filed Pursuant Toto Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1**

Certification Furnished Pursuant Toto Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

101.INS

*XBRL Instance Document.

 

 

101.SCH

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

 

 

101.CAL

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.DEF

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.LAB

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

 

 

101.PRE

*XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

 

____________________________

 

* Filed herewith.herewith

** Furnished herewith.

         

 

Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, INC.

(Registrant)

 

Date: October 11, 201915, 2020

 

/s/ Bryan J. Merryman

  

Bryan J. Merryman, Chief Executive Officer,

Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

 

29

32